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Mário Jorge Machado has been re-elected President of EURATEX for a new mandate, with key priorities focused on strengthening the competitiveness of the European textile and apparel industry through investment in innovation, digitalization, artificial intelligence, skills development, and automation; ensuring truly fair competition by advocating for the equal application of EU rules to all products sold in Europe; and supporting companies in their green and digital transitions.
The Portuguese entrepreneur will therefore continue to lead the European confederation representing the textile and clothing sector. The General Assembly also confirmed the presidential team, comprising Franz Peter Falke, Barbara Cimmino and Ismail Kolunsag as Vice-Presidents, alongside Gregory Marchant as Vice-President for Treasury.
In his speech last Friday, Mário Jorge Machado emphasized that “it is an honour and a privilege to be re-elected,” while acknowledging that these are “challenging years” for companies in the sector. Nevertheless, he expressed confidence in the future of the industry:
“I believe in the future of our industry, and all of you believe in the future of our industry. I therefore count on everyone to continue this effort and this work. I am confident that we will achieve important accomplishments for our industry. It will not be easy; we all know the challenges we are facing, but with your contribution we will succeed in securing the future of our industry and of Europe. Thank you for your confidence.”
Ana Dinis, Director-General of ATP – Portuguese Textile & Clothing Association, took the opportunity to congratulate the association’s Vice-President on his re-election and to mark EURATEX’s 30 years of service to the sector.
“Companies may sometimes feel that they face challenges alone, but behind the scenes there are associations such as EURATEX and ATP working every day to defend the interests of our industry,” she stated.
The re-election comes at a crucial moment for the European textile and apparel sector, as companies navigate increasing regulatory requirements, international competition, sustainability targets, and the need to accelerate digital and technological transformation while maintaining industrial competitiveness.