As the global textile industry accelerates toward automation, digitalization, and AI-driven manufacturing, international collaboration has become increasingly important for sustainable growth and technological advancement. Industry associations are playing a vital role in connecting businesses, facilitating knowledge exchange, and promoting innovation across global markets. The Russian Textile Association is one of the key organizations representing Russia’s textile and apparel sector. The association works to strengthen the industry through business networking, international cooperation, trade promotion, and support for technological modernization. By bringing together manufacturers, buyers, investors, and technology providers, it helps create new market opportunities and fosters long-term industry development.
During ITCPE 2026 in Guangzhou, Mohammad Ashraful Islam, Editor, Textile Focus, conversed with Ildarov Shamkhal, President of the Russian Textile Association, about the current transformation of Russia’s textile industry, opportunities for Bangladesh-Russia cooperation, and the growing role of artificial intelligence, automation, and advanced manufacturing technologies in shaping the future of the global textile and apparel sector.
Textile Focus: How do you view the global textile industry in recent years?
Ildarov Shamkhal: The global textile industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience despite economic uncertainty, geopolitical challenges, and supply chain disruptions. Today, global textile and apparel trade exceeds USD 900 billion annually, and demand continues to grow, driven by population growth and evolving consumer preferences. At the same time, the industry is undergoing a significant transformation. Sustainability, digitalization, and supply chain transparency are no longer optional—they have become essential priorities for manufacturers, brands, and retailers worldwide. Companies that successfully adapt to these changes will be best positioned for long-term growth.
Textile Focus: How do you see Bangladesh as a destination for the textile and apparel business?
Ildarov Shamkhal: Bangladesh has firmly established itself as one of the world’s leading textile and apparel manufacturing hubs. The country contributes approximately 7–8% of global apparel exports and remains one of the largest sourcing destinations for international brands. Its competitive manufacturing base, skilled workforce, strong entrepreneurial culture, and ongoing investments in modernization make Bangladesh a highly attractive partner for global buyers. The country’s continued commitment to quality improvement and sustainability further strengthens its position in the international market.
Textile Focus: In which areas can Bangladesh continue working to attract more Russian buyers?
Ildarov Shamkhal: There is significant potential to strengthen trade relations between Bangladesh and Russia. One of the most effective approaches is increasing direct business-to-business engagement through trade missions, industry networking events, and participation in specialized international exhibitions. In addition, raising awareness among Russian importers and retailers of Bangladesh’s manufacturing capabilities would help create new business opportunities. We also see strong prospects for collaboration in technical textiles, sustainable production, value-added products, and diversified apparel categories. Developing long-term partnerships rather than focusing solely on short-term transactions will be an important factor in expanding bilateral trade.
Textile Focus: What role does the Russian Textile Association play in the development of the textile industry?
Ildarov Shamkhal: Our association serves as a bridge between manufacturers, buyers, investors, and other industry stakeholders. We create opportunities for companies to establish new business relationships, explore international markets, and expand their commercial networks. Through trade events, networking platforms, and international cooperation programs, we facilitate partnerships that contribute significantly to industry growth. Every year, business contacts established through our activities result in contracts worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Beyond business development, we actively support knowledge sharing, market intelligence, and collaborative initiatives that enhance the global competitiveness of the textile industry.
Textile Focus: The textile industry is moving rapidly toward automation and artificial intelligence. How do you see these technologies shaping the future?
Ildarov Shamkhal: Artificial intelligence, automation, digital textile printing, and 3D technologies will fundamentally reshape the future of textile manufacturing. These technologies are already helping companies improve productivity, reduce waste, optimize supply chains, and respond more quickly to market demands. In the coming years, we expect AI-powered decision-making, smart factories, predictive maintenance, and digital production systems to become increasingly common across the industry. Companies that embrace innovation today will gain a significant competitive advantage in the future.
Textile Focus: Do Russian textile companies have a growing interest in cooperation with Chinese technology providers and machinery manufacturers?
Ildarov Shamkhal: Yes, absolutely. We are witnessing increasing interest among Russian and CIS textile companies in working with Chinese machinery manufacturers and technology suppliers. China has become a global leader in textile machinery innovation, automation solutions, and digital production technologies. As Russia continues modernizing its textile industry, cooperation with Chinese partners is expected to play an important role in accelerating industrial development, improving production efficiency, and strengthening supply chain resilience.
Textile Focus: Is there anything special you would like to say to the Bangladesh textile industry and our readers?
Ildarov Shamkhal: Bangladesh has earned a strong reputation in the global textile sector through dedication, quality, and continuous improvement. The country’s achievements over the past decades have been truly impressive. I believe the future offers even greater opportunities for cooperation between Bangladesh and Russia. I encourage industry leaders to continue investing in innovation, sustainability, workforce development, and long-term partnerships. These will be the key drivers of growth and competitiveness in the years ahead.
