The textile industry in Portugal has emerged as a significant player on the international stage.
With its flexibility, inexpensive labor, and a spirit of innovation focused on sustainable practices, the industry has gained recognition and success.
One example is a company located in the Ave valley, which was founded in 1927 and currently employs a thousand workers.
This company, along with many others in Portugal, has been experiencing an increase in orders after a lull during the Covid crisis.
They produce 40,000 meters (131,200 feet) of fabric daily, with 98 percent of it earmarked for export.
The growing customer base includes renowned brands such as Zara, Sandro, Maje, Claudie Pierlot, and Tommy Hilfiger.
These brands value the Portuguese textile industry’s ability to provide unique offerings, differentiating themselves from foreign competition without compromising aesthetics.
According to Alberto Paccanelli, the president of Brussels-based Euratex, Portugal’s workforce remains competitive by offering quality products at reasonable prices.
The industry has witnessed significant growth after overcoming competition from companies relocating to Asia.
Between 2000 and 2015, the sector lost nearly 100,000 jobs.
However, it has made a strong comeback, generating record exports of textile products.
Portugal’s success in the industry can be attributed to its low production costs and the sector’s ability to adapt to market demands.
The country’s textile exports hit a record sales figure of 5.4 billion euros last year, a 16.4 percent increase from the previous year.
To ensure continued growth, Portugal’s textile sector focuses on sustainable development and competitiveness.
The region of Vila Nova de Famalicao, for instance, has a technological institute dedicated to textiles and clothing.
They develop new fibers from recycled materials and use natural dyes.
However, energy price increases pose challenges for the industry.
Despite the challenges, the Portuguese textile industry remains optimistic about the future.
They seek coordinated European plans to avoid competition among European countries and ensure fair trade practices.
With their dedication to innovation, sustainability, and adaptability, Portuguese textiles are poised to continue their global success..
