The First Joint ITMF & IAF Convention Concluded in Uzbekistan

On September 8-10, 2024, Samarkand, Uzbekistan, hosted the first joint conference of the ITMF Annual Conference and the IAF World Fashion Convention. This marked a significant event in the global textile industry. For the first time in ITMF's 120-year history, Central Asia was chosen as the venue.

The event attracted over 500 delegates globally, including leading industry players from Europe, Asia, and North America. The conference highlighted Uzbekistan's growing position in the textile industry, following extensive reforms and human rights programs initiated in 2017.

Participants discussed critical issues like value creation in the supply chain, AI impact, production digitization, international regulations, sustainable development, recycling, and supply chain optimization among others in 25 business events. A dedicated session focused on Uzbekistan's textile industry, emphasizing reforms like the end of the state monopoly on cotton farming and banning forced labor.

Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and ITMF President Dr. K.V. Srinivasan highlighted the country's progress and reforms. Acting Chairman of the Uztextileprom Association, Mirmukhsin Sultanov, pointed out the industry's export growth, aiming to increase from $3.5 billion in 2023 to $6.5 billion by 2026.

Attendees also visited cotton clusters and explored textile productions in Uzbekistan. The event concluded with the ITMF Awards and ITMF Start-up Award ceremony, recognizing outstanding industry achievements for 2024.