CEMATEX Strengthens EU Representation for Textile Machinery
CEMATEX, the European Committee of Textile Machinery Manufacturers, has enhanced its role as the EU textile machinery industry’s voice. By increasing engagement with EU institutions and stakeholders, the association now influences key legislative and trade developments more effectively.
EU Transparency and Legislative Engagement
According to Alex Zucchi, President of CEMATEX, the organization is now officially registered in the EU Transparency Register. He said, “This registration positions CEMATEX to actively represent the European textile machinery industry in dialogue with EU legislators and to contribute to upcoming legislative consultations.”
CEMATEX has joined the EU Sustainable Textiles Transition Pathway and the EU Textiles Ecosystem platform to strengthen connections within the EU textiles community. It is actively monitoring upcoming initiatives, including:
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Eco-Design Regulation (Textile Delegated Act)
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Waste Framework Directive implementation
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Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules (for apparel)
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Market surveillance and customs reforms, including a proposed central market surveillance agency
Trade Advocacy and Global Engagement
CEMATEX continues to advocate for its members globally. It focuses on the Indian Omnibus Technical Regulation, which requires certification by the Bureau of Indian Standards for weaving and embroidery machines. The association has submitted a position paper to the Indian Ministry of Heavy Industries and is lobbying for a postponement.
In Europe, CEMATEX coordinates with CECIMO, Orgalim, and CECE to oppose compulsory certification for CE-marked machinery. It has also raised the issue as a Technical Barrier to Trade (TBT) at the WTO plenary meeting in June 2025. Simultaneously, CEMATEX lobbies for tariff-free EU textile machinery exports to India.
Market Surveillance Initiatives
CEMATEX advocates stronger enforcement against non-compliant imports. It has:
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Circulated a position paper to all 27 EU Member State Market Surveillance Authorities (MSAs)
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Developed a plan to assist MSAs and customs authorities in identifying non-compliant machinery
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Established a Machine Safety Committee to collect evidence of recurring non-compliance
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Created brochures and awareness campaigns for MSAs, customs officers, and customer associations
Looking Ahead
Through these initiatives, CEMATEX strengthens its leadership in representing the European textile machinery industry. Mr. Zucchi emphasized, “By engaging in EU decision-making and defending industry interests in global trade, CEMATEX ensures a competitive, sustainable, and innovative future for European textile machinery.”
