In a joint statement released in Brussels, Euratex (the European Apparel and Textile Confederation) and IndustriAll Europe (the trade union representing workers in the sector) called on the European Commission to enact an “assertive European industrial strategy” to prevent the industry’s collapse. The social partners warned that the sector, a cornerstone of the EU economy with 192,000 companies and 1.3 million workers contributing €167 billion annually, is at a "critical crossroads."

The core of their urgent plea is the need to "level the global playing field," specifically targeting exploitative ultra-fast fashion models that undercut EU standards. They argue that the immense pressure from these low-cost, low-sustainability imports, combined with the high financial burden of the EU’s green and digital transitions, threatens to wipe out industrial know-how and thousands of skilled jobs.

Dirk Vantyghem, Director General of EURATEX, emphasized, “We need a more assertive European industrial strategy, one that doubles down on investment in innovation and protects our economy from unfair global competition.” The statement demands immediate action on affordable, clean energy access for SMEs and substantial EU investment in vocational training and reskilling programs to ensure the transformation is a "just transition" that protects every worker.