The Swiss textile machinery manufacturers have highlighted the continued strategic importance of China and India, two of the world’s leading textile manufacturing hubs, for its member companies. While both countries have long ranked among the most important markets for Swiss textile machinery manufacturers, they differ significantly in terms of industrial structure, raw material resources and investment priorities. Swiss Textile Machinery members will showcase market-specific solutions at ITMA Asia + CITME in China and India ITME in India.
Technological advancement and strong competition in China
China remains the world’s largest textile manufacturing country, with a highly integrated value chain spanning from fibre production to garment manufacturing. The country continues to be the world’s leading exporter of textiles and apparel, supported by a substantial domestic market that generates additional demand. Particularly strong in man-made fibres, China has also seen significant technological progress among its domestic machinery manufacturers, creating an increasingly competitive environment for international suppliers. As a result, Swiss companies are focusing on advanced technologies such as automation, digital connectivity, precise process control and resource-efficient production solutions.
Modernisation investments accelerate in India
India, meanwhile, has traditionally built its textile industry on cotton production and processing. As one of the world’s largest cotton producers, the country is increasingly investing in technical textiles, man-made fibres and advanced finishing processes. A growing domestic market, driven by a young population and rising incomes, is supporting industry expansion, while government initiatives aimed at strengthening manufacturing capacities and boosting exports are further accelerating development. These trends are generating increased demand for modernisation projects, quality control systems and technologies that improve energy and water efficiency.
Cornelia Buchwalder, Secretary General of Swiss Textile Machinery, said that although China and India are both key markets for the industry, their industrial environments differ notably: “The structure of textile production, the availability of raw materials and the importance of domestic demand all influence their investment priorities. Understanding these differences is essential for our member companies to offer technologies that meet the specific requirements of each market.”
Buchwalder noted that the Swiss textile machinery industry has built long-standing relationships with manufacturers in both countries, adding that innovation today is increasingly shaped by close customer collaboration and a detailed understanding of production processes. She emphasized that Swiss companies combine engineering expertise with specialized textile know-how, enabling them to develop solutions that enhance efficiency, reliability and product quality.
Swiss textile machinery suppliers in China in November, India in December
Two major exhibitions scheduled for the final months of 2026 will provide Swiss manufacturers with an important platform to present their textile technologies to these markets. ITMA Asia + CITME will take place in Shanghai from 20 to 24 November, while India ITME will be held in Greater Noida from 4 to 9 December. Around 20 member companies of Swiss Textile Machinery are expected to exhibit at each event. Industry representatives believe that despite geopolitical uncertainties and trade barriers, China and India will continue to shape the future development of the global textile industry.