Speaking exclusively to Salil Chawla, FashionatingWorld, at the inauguration of Bharat Tex 2026, Dirk Vantyghem, Director General of the European Apparel and Textile Confederation (EURATEX), called for a deeper, mutually beneficial partnership between India and the European Union to navigate an increasingly volatile global market.
Highlighting that the European textile and apparel sector is currently operating amidst severe headwinds, including geopolitical conflicts, energy crises, and rising trade tensions, Dirk stressed that international collaboration is essential. He noted that the European Commission is actively working with industry stakeholders to preserve Europe's competitiveness while forging resilient global alliances.
A balanced India-EU FTA for mutual growth
Addressing the ongoing negotiations around the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Vantyghem underscored that its successful implementation must deliver a balanced, bilateral win.
"India’s textile sector has ambitious growth plans, clearly reflected in the scale and vision of Bharat Tex 2026," Vantyghem stated. "The future lies in a genuine win-win partnership, enabling Indian companies to expand into the European market while providing European firms greater access to India with innovative products, technical textiles, and advanced technologies."
To ensure these objectives are met, Vantyghem revealed a major strategic step: EURATEX and the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) are signing a formal cooperation agreement. The two bodies will jointly monitor the execution of the India-EU FTA, constructively addressing market access, cross-border investments, and regulatory alignment in the years ahead.
Beyond 'China+1': Focus on rules, innovation, and sustainability
Weighing in on the global supply chain diversification trend, Vantyghem offered a distinct perspective on the "China+1" strategy, clarifying that Europe’s objective is not simply replacing one manufacturing hub with another.
"Europe is not seeking to replace one trading partner with another," Vantyghem emphasized. "Instead, we advocate for a fair and transparent global trading environment where companies from India, China, Europe, and other regions compete on equal terms." He added that Europe’s priority centers on establishing a shared regulatory framework anchored in sustainability and transparency, ensuring that "innovation and entrepreneurship—not geography—determine success."
Concluding his address, Vantyghem expressed strong optimism about India’s expanding footprint in the global textile value chain, praising Bharat Tex for rapidly maturing into a premier international platform.
