AITEX hosted in May the 51st Symposium of the Spanish Association of Textile Chemists and Colourists (AEQCT), reinforcing its position as a key meeting point for the national textile sector. Under the theme “Smart Reshoring”, the event addressed the challenges and opportunities facing the industry in a context of industrial, technological and global transformation.
The symposium placed particular emphasis on the role of people as a driving force for change, highlighting the importance of talent development to support the reshoring of textile production. Beyond a purely technical perspective, the event provided a space for reflection, learning and inspiration for professionals across the entire value chain.
A key event for the future of the textile sector
The symposium brought together leading experts and industry professionals to analyse strategic issues such as industrial reshoring, European policies linked to the Clean Deal, and the digitalisation and automation of textile processes. Organisational development was also addressed as a critical factor for maximising human potential within companies.
One of the most significant highlights was the opening keynote delivered by Nuria Aymerich, Special Commissioner for Industrial Competitiveness and SMEs at the Ministry of Industry and Tourism. Her address underscored leadership and excellence as key drivers for addressing the sector’s emerging challenges, reinforcing the strategic relevance of the textile industry within the European context.
The programme brought together industry experts to further examine key strategic topics, including industrial reshoring, new European policies associated with the Clean Deal, as well as the digitalisation and automation of textile processes. Organisational development was also highlighted as a key element in enhancing talent and competitiveness within companies.
“Events of this kind are essential to driving the competitiveness of the textile sector, placing people at the centre and promoting sustainable and intelligent reshoring,” stated León Grau, President of AITEX.
Innovation, knowledge and participation
The event concluded with the participatory panel discussion entitled “The Voice of the Sector”, where speakers and attendees discussed the key challenges and opportunities facing the European textile industry, creating a space for dialogue and shared reflection.
With this edition, AEQCT reaffirms its commitment to knowledge transfer, innovation and the strengthening of human capital—fundamental pillars for a more sustainable, competitive and future-ready textile industry.
“Innovation and knowledge transfer are essential to address the sector’s current challenges, particularly in an environment driven by digital transformation and sustainability,” stated Vicente Cambra, Deputy Director of R&D at AITEX.
