The European textile industry is compelling European Union to accelerate free trade agreements (FTAs) with four key nations in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). These new agreements are crucial for expanding market access, reducing tariffs, and boosting the sector's global competitiveness, say industry leaders.

The push for these FTAs is driven by the need to diversify sourcing and strengthen supply chains. They will help European companies reduce costs and build resilience against ongoing global disruptions.

However, the industry's call for these new trade deals comes with a clear condition: any agreement must align with the EU's sustainability goals. This is intended to ensure that new trade relationships do not create unfair competitive advantages for companies that fail to meet European environmental and labor standards.