Portugal is taking part in this year’s edition of Techtextil and Texprocess in Frankfurt, starting on Tuesday, with 14 companies and three research institutes, a presence marked by the presentation of two innovation awards.
The two fairs run simultaneously and rank among the most significant global events for technical textiles, industrial innovation, production, and automation.
“The Portuguese participation has remained stable in recent editions, reflecting the sector’s continued commitment to internationalisation and presence in demanding markets,” said Braz Costa, Director-General of CITEVE (Portugal’s Technological Centre for the Textile and Clothing Industries).
He told Lusa that Techtextil is the largest fair in the sector and, therefore, “absolutely essential for Portuguese companies.”
He noted a range of new solutions from Portuguese companies in areas such as personal protection and textile accessories. The automotive sector has a smaller presence, as it typically features more prominently in specific trade fairs.
Portugal’s participants include companies and entities focused on technical textiles, innovation, and advanced industrial solutions, areas where the sector has consolidated its international position.
“CITEVE will participate in Texprocess for the first time this year, following recent investment in combining digitalisation and artificial intelligence,” he said.
During the event, CITEVE will receive two innovation awards. The Techtextil Innovation Award, in the “New Chemicals & Dyes” category, recognises the development of sustainable textile printing pastes produced from food, industrial, and agricultural waste. This solution is over 94% bio-based and serves as an alternative to petroleum-derived products.
The Texprocess Innovation Award distinguished CITEVE in digitalisation and artificial intelligence, rewarding technological solutions applied to textile production, specifically in automation and industrial processes.
Germany remains a strategic market, serving as the third-largest destination for Portuguese textile exports, worth approximately €500 million annually.
Techtextil and Texprocess will take place between 21 and 24 April in Frankfurt, bringing together hundreds of exhibitors and professionals from around the world. These events serve as central platforms for presenting innovation and developing partnerships within the global textile sector.
