18 March 2026, Baku, Azerbaijan
The Azerbaijan Textile Association (ATA) has been officially accepted as a member of the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF), one of the most prestigious global industry platforms, marking an important strategic milestone in Azerbaijan’s integration into the global textile value chain.
Founded in 1904, ITMF is one of the oldest international non-governmental organizations and serves as a global platform connecting the entire textile value chain — from raw materials to finished products. Its core mission is to foster connections among members, collect and disseminate industry data, and represent the interests of the textile sector at the international level.
ATA’s membership in ITMF represents a strategic achievement not only for the Association but for Azerbaijan as a whole. This step contributes significantly to the development of the non-oil sector, export diversification, and the integration of the country’s industry into global markets.
As one of the key platforms representing the textile and apparel industry in Azerbaijan, ATA actively supports sector development, strengthens public–private dialogue, enhances production capacity, and expands international cooperation. Membership in ITMF further reinforces ATA’s role in these areas and confirms its commitment to sustainable development, innovation, and increasing global competitiveness.
ITMF Director General Christian Schindler stated:
“Welcoming the Azerbaijan Textile Association as a new member further strengthens ITMF’s global network. Azerbaijan’s textile sector has strong growth potential, and ATA’s participation will contribute to deeper international cooperation, knowledge exchange, and integration into the global value chain.”
ATA Executive Director Farida Akhundova commented:
“Membership in ITMF represents a strategic turning point for Azerbaijan’s textile industry. It expands access to global markets for local manufacturers, accelerates the adoption of international standards, and facilitates the transfer of innovative practices to the country. At the same time, it will serve as an important platform for strengthening coordination between the public and private sectors and shaping a unified development strategy for the industry.”
Within the framework of ITMF, ATA and its member companies will benefit from:
- Access to new export markets and the establishment of strategic partnerships;
- Access to global statistics, analytical reports, and industry surveys;
- Direct engagement with an international network of experts and knowledge exchange;
- Insights into global trends, innovation, and sustainability;
- Participation in international conferences and forums.
This membership also enables government institutions to make more informed, internationally aligned decisions in shaping industrial policy and supports the alignment of Azerbaijan’s industrial strategy with global trends.
For the private sector, it opens significant opportunities for market expansion, enhanced competitiveness, and the adoption of advanced technologies and management practices. ATA’s membership in ITMF is considered a significant achievement in strengthening the international positioning of Azerbaijan’s textile sector and advancing the country’s role as a reliable and competitive partner in the global textile market.
