The annual conference of the International Textile Manufacturers’ Federation (ITMF) entitled “Challenges facing the Textile Industry: Present and Future” kicked off in Hanoi on November 5. Over 200 delegates from 26 countries and territories are taking part in the event.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Hoang Trung Hai said the event offers the participants a chance to share experience, seek partners and expand markets across the globe.

He also pointed out weaknesses and challenges facing Vietnam ’s textile industry, including fierce global competition, the lack of material sources and weak links with its global partners.

Participants at the event discussed key issues, including the global supply chain and its management, from weaving to retail, trading orientations amidst the volatile raw material markets, sovereign debt crisis and political instability in some regions, the US ’s trade policy and global textile machinery, among others.

Vu Duc Giang, President of the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association and Chairman of the Vietnam National Textile and Garment Group (VINATEX) said the event will help increase mutual understanding between ITMF members and Vietnam, and offer the country a chance to receive the latest fiber, weaving and dyeing technologies.-VNA