CEMATEX, the European Committee of Textile Machinery Manufacturers, has strengthened its position as the voice of Europe’s textile machinery sector. The association has increased its engagement with EU institutions and stakeholders.
President Alex Zucchi announced that CEMATEX is now officially listed in the EU Transparency Register. He said, “This registration allows the association to lead industry dialogue with EU legislators and contribute directly to upcoming policy consultations.”
CEMATEX has joined the EU Sustainable Textiles Transition Pathway and pledged support for a greener textile ecosystem. It has also become part of the EU Textiles Ecosystem platform, building stronger ties and visibility in the European textile community.
To align with the EU textile strategy, CEMATEX is tracking new legislative measures. These include the Eco-Design Regulation (Textile Delegated Act), Waste Framework Directive across member states, Product Environmental Footprint Rules for apparel, and customs reforms, such as a proposed central surveillance agency.
Trade Advocacy and Global Engagement
CEMATEX continues to defend its members’ trade interests. It is currently focused on the Indian Omnibus Technical Regulation and EU market surveillance. India’s regulation requires mandatory certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards for weaving and embroidery machines. In response, CEMATEX submitted a position paper to the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) and joined its Textile Machinery Subcommittee to seek clarifications.
In Europe, CEMATEX has partnered with CECIMO, Orgalim, and CECE to oppose mandatory certification for CE-marked machinery. It urged the European Commission to classify the regulation as a Technical Barrier to Trade (TBT) at the WTO plenary in June 2025 and demanded its removal. At the same time, the association is lobbying for tariff-free access to the Indian market for EU textile machinery.
Market Surveillance Initiatives
CEMATEX also works on stronger enforcement against non-compliant imports. It circulated a position paper to all 27 EU Member State Market Surveillance Authorities (MSAs) and launched a plan to provide customs with documents that identify risky imports.
The association is forming a Machine Safety Committee of member experts to collect evidence of recurring non-compliance. It is also preparing brochures for MSAs and customs officers to improve inspections. In addition, it will raise awareness among trade unions and customer associations about the risks of unsafe imports.
Looking Ahead
CEMATEX aims to strengthen its leadership role in Europe’s textile machinery industry. Mr. Zucchi said, “By engaging in EU decision-making and protecting industry interests in global trade, CEMATEX will ensure a competitive, sustainable, and innovative future for European textile machinery.”
