We Expect a Moderate Recovery in the Textile Machinery Sector in 2025

“Compared to 2023, exports of textile machinery from Switzerland fell by 17.7% to a total of CHF 424.2 million. The main export destinations were Germany, India, China, the USA and Turkiye. For 2025, we expect only a very moderate recovery in the global textile and textile machinery sectors.” said Swissmem Secretary General Cornelia Buchwalder.

The year 2024 was a challenging one for Swiss textile machinery manufacturers due to uncertainties in the global economy, geopolitical risks, and rising costs. While there was a 17.7% decrease in exports, the contraction in important markets such as Turkey was particularly notable. However, Switzerland’s high-tech manufacturing power enabled companies to quickly adapt to digitalization, AI-supported automation, and sustainable production processes. Secretary General of the Swiss Textile Machinery Association (Swissmem) Cornelia Buchwalder explained to Tekstil Teknoloji how the sector is trying to overcome these challenges, how it is preparing for the future with R&D investments, and how it is looking for opportunities in new markets. While the expectation for a moderate recovery in the sector in 2025 stands out, Switzerland’s innovation-focused approach will continue to make a difference in global competition

“Swiss Textile Machinery Exports Fell by 17.7%”

First of all, how was 2024 for Swiss textile machinery manufacturers and the sector? Can you explain this with machine production, machine sales figures and growth figures?

In 2024, the Swiss textile machinery sector faced a decline in exports, reflecting broader market challenges. While Switzerland does not provide official production figures, export data serve as a strong indicator of industry performance, as most production is destined for international markets. Compared to 2023, exports of textile machinery from Switzerland fell by 17.7% to a total of CHF 424.2 million. The main export destinations were Germany, India, China, the USA and Turkiye. Of these, Turkiye experienced a significant decline of 27.6% compared to the previous year.

Which machines do Swiss textile machinery manufacturers export the most and to which countries are the machines sold the most?

Swiss textile machinery manufacturers export a wide range of textile machines, but official statistics are not available for specific machine types. However, the challenges faced in 2024 affected the entire industry in a similar way. While overall export performance was negative, three markets – Thailand, Egypt and Indonesia – developed positively, with growth of 12% to 20%. However, the gains in these countries were not enough to offset the declines in the main markets mentioned above.

What kind of transformation do industrial digitalization and automation create in textile machinery production? How do you contribute to this transformation as Swissmem?

Industrial digitalisation and automation in Swiss textile machinery is driving efficiency and productivity through the use of AI, machine learning and advanced robotics. Predictive maintenance systems use AI to anticipate machine failures, minimising downtime and reducing costs, while machine learning optimises settings in real time for varying production conditions. Robotics improve material handling and quality control, ensuring faster cycles and greater precision.

“R&D Investments Has Surged”

Have there been any developments in the R&D investments of textile machinery manufacturers in Switzerland? What kind of innovative projects are there in the Swiss textile machinery sector in terms of clean production processes and the use of recyclable materials?

Recent R&D investment in the Swiss textile machinery sector has surged, driven by industry-wide commitment and European legislation. Companies are embracing AI-driven automation, digitalisation and sustainable production, focusing on closed-loop systems, water- and energy-efficient machinery and advanced recycling solutions to support a circular economy. The industry is driving clean production processes and setting global standards for recyclable materials. Collaborations with research institutions, start-ups and global partners reinforce Switzerland’s leadership in innovation, as evidenced by topping the WIPO Global Innovation Index for 14 years. This excellence in innovation, precision and quality also applies to Swiss textile machinery companies.

“Swissmem Member Companies Train Apprentices”

The insufficiency of qualified labor in the textile machinery sector is frequently mentioned. What kind of education policy is being followed as Swissmem to overcome this problem? What should be done for the younger generation of engineers to take more place in this sector?

Switzerland’s well-developed vocational training system plays a key role in addressing the shortage of skilled labour in the textile machinery sector. Many Swissmem member companies train apprentices in areas such as automation, polymechanics, electronics and business administration. Outside Switzerland, companies adapt this system to local needs. While there is no specific university degree in textile machinery engineering in Switzerland, companies offer specialised training after mechanical engineering studies or recruit talent from countries with specific textile machinery programmes. Strengthening industry-academia cooperation and promoting career opportunities can help attract more young engineers to the sector.

Energy crisis, wars, increase in raw material prices, etc. problems affect the textile machinery sector as well as all other sectors. How are Swissmem member companies affected by these crises? What is the roadmap of the companies regarding this process?
Swissmem member companies, like others, are affected by rising commodity prices and geopolitical instability. Strengthening the resilience of the supply chain is crucial. Switzerland’s government-backed short-time work compensation helps companies retain skilled staff and ensure they are ready to respond quickly when the economy recovers.

“We Will Visit Morocco Later This Year to Explore Opportunities”

What kind of changes will occur in the export markets of global textile machinery manufacturers? Are Swiss textile machinery manufacturers conducting any work for these markets?

Global export markets for textile machinery are evolving due to changing trade tariffs and dynamic market conditions. To remain competitive and ensure balanced market access, Swiss manufacturers are continually exploring new regions. For example, we will be visiting Morocco later this year to explore opportunities and engage with the local textile industry. This proactive approach not only helps us adapt to ever-changing trade conditions but also reinforces our commitment to reaching new markets and fostering international partnerships.

What are your expectations and goals regarding the global textile sector and especially the textile machinery sector in 2025?

For 2025, we expect only a very moderate recovery in the global textile and textile machinery sectors. Many companies do not yet see a significant business improvement, as overcapacity remains a major challenge. Additionally, the uncertain geopolitical situation continues to hinder investments in new machinery and infrastructure. While some markets may show signs of stabilization, overall demand remains weak, and companies are proceeding cautiously.