The workshop, which was part of the ITC's Global Textiles and Clothing Programme (GTEX) and its activities in the Middle East and North Africa (MENATEX) served as a platform for experts, academics, and industry professionals from Egypt, Jordan, Morocco and Tunisia to engage in discussions on sustainability and circularity issues.
Participants delved into international regulations, ongoing research and development scenarios, and the technical intricacies of textile circularity. The workshop aimed to raise awareness among academic institutions of their key role in the textile and apparel ecosystem.
The head of ITC's fibres, textiles, and clothing unit Matthias Knappe underscored the role of academia in supporting export-oriented businesses: ‘As part of the institutional framework fostering job creation through exports, academic institutions play a crucial role in actively contributing to the dual transition.”
Key topics discussed included circular economic models, exploration of the latest technologies, and issues related to carbon reduction and life cycle assessments in circular textile practices.
Tobias Meier from Sustainable Textiles Switzerland 2030 addressed upcoming regulations in the European Union and other countries, emphasising the potential risks associated with brands and retailers passing on responsibilities to other businesses along the value chain.
He noted that a circular economy implies “regionally logistically small circles close to the consumer” with the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region well-positioned to develop existing and additional business, particularly considering Europe's significant market presence with new legislation.
Tunisian Textile and Clothing Federation (FTTH) general coordinator Rym Jelassi described the event as “incredibly engaging,” emphasising the priorities of the Tunisian textile industry and the importance of research, development, eco-design and skill enhancement to address market demands.
She added: "Our active efforts include waste management, environmental training modules, and creating new green jobs.”
The workshop served as a prelude to the launch of the second phase of the GTEX/MENATEX programme in 2024.
GTEX/MENATEX II aims to enhance the textile and apparel industry in Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Tunisia, and Sri Lanka, with a primary focus on improving export competitiveness through sustainability and circularity.
Phase II of GTEX/MENATEX is committed to catalysing change by collaborating with businesses and the institutional ecosystem of partner countries.
The programme aligns with the broader mission of advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and contributing significantly to sustainable and inclusive practices in the textile and apparel value chain.
