A major industry workshop in Cairo has ended after bringing together Italian textile machine makers and Egyptian textile operators. The event focused on modern tools, new production methods, and future cooperation between the two countries. It showed strong interest in building a closer industrial link in the textile sector.
The workshop took place on 5 and 6 May 2026. It was held in Cairo and was centered on Italian technologies for the textile industry. The goal was to share new ideas and support the growth of Egypt’s textile production. Many experts say the sector is key for jobs and exports in the region.
The event was organized by the Italian Trade Agency, known as ICE Agency, and the Italian textile machinery group ACIMIT. It also had support from the Italian Embassy in Cairo and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, UNIDO. These groups worked together to promote cooperation and training.
A total of 23 Italian companies joined the workshop. More than 120 Egyptian industry operators also took part. This strong attendance showed rising demand for modern textile machines and knowledge sharing. It also highlighted Egypt’s growing role as a major market for Italian technology in Africa.
The workshop covered several key topics. These included textile spinning, weaving, and finishing. These are the main stages in textile production. Italian companies showed new machines designed to improve speed, quality, and energy use. Many of these tools also aim to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
ACIMIT data shows strong trade between the two countries. Italian textile machinery exports to Egypt reached about €72 million in 2025. That is around $84.96 million. Egypt is now the largest African buyer of Italian textile machinery. This shows strong long-term trade ties between the sectors.
Experts at the event said that technology transfer is very important. They explained that machines alone are not enough. Workers also need training. For this reason, training programs and skill development were key parts of the talks. The aim is to help Egypt modernize its textile industry in a sustainable way.
Italian textile machinery is known worldwide for quality and innovation. Companies in the sector are seen as leaders in advanced production tools. Their machines are used in many countries. Buyers often choose them for reliability, high output, and energy savings.
Marco Salvadè, president of ACIMIT, said Egypt is one of the most important markets for Italian firms. He noted that strong participation in the Cairo workshop shows growing cooperation. He also said Italian technology can help improve quality and efficiency in Egyptian factories. He added that future collaboration will focus on sustainable production.
The workshop is also linked to wider international plans. Italy is preparing for ITMA Hannover 2027, a major global textile technology event. Italian firms plan to present new innovations there. The Cairo workshop is part of efforts to strengthen global partnerships before that event.
Several well-known Italian companies took part in the workshop. These include Itema, Marzoli Machines Textile, Reggiani Macchine, Savio Macchine Tessili, Stalam, Tonello, and others. Each company presented different solutions for textile production. Some focused on weaving systems, while others focused on dyeing, finishing, or automation.
Egyptian operators showed strong interest in these technologies. Many local companies are trying to upgrade their factories. They want to increase production quality and compete in global markets. Italian machines are seen as a way to reach that goal.
The textile sector is very important for Egypt’s economy. It provides many jobs and supports export growth. Modern tools and international partnerships are seen as key steps for future development. Events like this workshop help connect local needs with global expertise.
Organizers said the workshop created a space for direct talks between companies. It allowed both sides to discuss real needs and solutions. It also helped build trust between Italian manufacturers and Egyptian buyers.
The event ended with a shared message. Both sides said cooperation should continue. They agreed that long-term partnerships and training programs will help the industry grow.
The Cairo workshop now stands as another step in growing industrial ties between Italy and Egypt. It also shows how technology sharing can support economic development in key sectors like textiles.
