ITMA 2023, the world’s largest textile and garment technology exhibition, has commenced in Milan, presenting a remarkable showcase of innovative solutions aimed at transforming the textile and garment industry. The event features 1709 exhibitors from 47 countries, highlighting cutting-edge technologies and advancements in areas such as advanced materials, automation, digitalization, sustainability, and circularity. With an expansive exhibition space of 200,000 square meters, ITMA 2023 is the largest textile machinery exhibition in the post-pandemic era, symbolizing a significant platform for global innovation in the industry.
CEMATEX, the European Committee of Textile Machinery Manufacturers, which owns ITMA, stated that the exhibition has consistently maintained its reputation as a leading launchpad for textile machinery innovation since its inception in 1951. Mr. Ernesto Maurer, President of CEMATEX, revealed at a press conference that ITMA 2023 has experienced a 3% increase in net exhibit space compared to the previous edition in 2019. Additionally, new exhibitors from countries such as Tunisia, Estonia, Ireland, Norway, Ukraine, Panama, Peru, and Honduras have joined the event, reflecting the growing interest and participation in ITMA.
ITMA 2023 serves as an important platform for businesses to explore and source newly launched machinery and products across 20 product sectors that contribute to the digital and sustainable transformation of the textile and garment industry. European companies, particularly those from CEMATEX countries, play a prominent role in the exhibition, with 867 exhibitors securing 63% of the net exhibit space. Italy leads the contingent with the largest number of exhibitors (422) occupying 30% of the space. Germany follows with 198 exhibitors (15% of space), while Turkey showcases 191 exhibitors (12% of space). Notably, China (231 exhibitors) and India (181 exhibitors) also make significant contributions.
Apart from traditional sectors such as finishing, spinning, weaving, printing, and knitting, ITMA 2023 has witnessed an increased interest in the recycling and software sectors, both of which have doubled their exhibit space. The exhibition provides a comprehensive range of technologies and services, including the newly included sector of textile composites, catering to the diverse needs of attendees.
The event emphasizes innovation through various highlights, including the Start-Up Valley in Hall 3, which presents 15 pioneering companies selected by industry experts. Additionally, ITMA 2023 features the Research & Innovation Lab, the ITMA Sustainable Innovation Award, Innovator Xchange, and specialized forums focused on textile colorants and chemicals, as well as nonwovens.
ITMA 2023 serves as a platform for industry stakeholders to revitalize their businesses and navigate the challenges posed by the global pandemic. Exhibitors and visitors view the exhibition as an opportunity to explore new prospects and drive growth amidst the current circumstances.
Running concurrently with ITMA 2023, there are co-located industry events like ZDHC Impact Day 2023 by the ZDHC Foundation and Planet Textiles, hosted by the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, which enhance educational and networking opportunities for textile professionals from around the world.
ITMA 2023 takes place at the Fiera Milano Rho venue in Milan and concludes on June 14, with daily opening hours from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, except on the final day when the exhibition ends at 4:00 pm. Further information about the event can be found on the official website at www.itma.com or by downloading the ITMA app.
The next edition of ITMA is scheduled to be held at the Hannover Exhibition Center in Hanover, Germany, from September 16 to 22, 2027.
