EURATEX has asked the European Commission and Member States to set the right conditions for the competitiveness and resilience of its industrial base, particularly in the textile and clothing industry. A series of measures were also suggested by EURATEX to the companies to overcome the aftereffects of COVID-19. The top measure is that Europe should put in place effective market surveillance, avoid unfair competition and guarantee level playing field. The continent has the stringiest social and environmental standards, and it should protect the quality of its products. EURATEX kept on suggesting that the continent should support the transition towards a more sustainable and digital industry through specific funds and programmes. “Moreover, the sector should reduce future risks by diversifying its supply chains and promoting nearby production. Europe can again play a fundamental role in the development of a new trade policy,” says EURATEX. Furthermore, as EURATEX avers, Europe should have a market proof approach when moving towards sustainability & circular economy. The green transition should carefully balance the cost of this transition process and the long-term benefits. Business and citizens may rapidly lose interest if the transition does not provide any short/mid-term benefit. The fourth suggestion is aimed at education systems wherein the institutes need to develop comprehensive and leading-edge textile and clothing knowledge. It can do so through LongLife Learning, Erasmus + and the Pact for Skills Initiative. “Our industries suffer from an ageing workforce and it is fundamental to reskill/upskill it. Most importantly, the sector should attract young generation to renew itself and drive the change,” comments EURATEX. The 5th and the last suggestion is that Europe should have a coherent approach when legislating in different areas. All policies, from the Green Deal to the Sustainable Chemicals strategy, from the EU Trade strategy to the EU Industrial one, should be consistent and not hamper industry.
