Centexbel, a research group dedicated to innovation in textiles and materials, is at the forefront of driving sustainability and performance improvements within the industry.
In a recent podcast, key figures from Centexbel, a world class research institute in Kortrijk, Belgium, shared intriguing insights into the advancements and challenges within the textile industry. The focus was on sustainable innovations that add value to textiles, plastics, paper, and more, through various coating, finishing, and processing technologies.
The session opened with Mam Vanesta, R&D Manager at Centexbel, discussing the group’s efforts to create formulations used in coating, printing, finishing, and dyeing technologies. These initiatives aim to enhance the durability and sustainability of materials. Vanesta highlighted the shift from merely improving performance to incorporating sustainability into every aspect of their work, such as developing biobased materials and improving recyclability, despite the challenges posed by multi-layered materials.
Next, Mr. Hoang Manh Cam, Deputy Chief of the Office of the Board of Directors, provided updated market information. He covered macroeconomics, the textile and garment import-export market, the impact of new tariffs, and sustainable development regulations. Notably, Vietnam’s textile and garment export turnover in January 2025 reached 3.68 billion USD, slightly lower than the previous period due to the Lunar New Year holiday. However, the average export value per working day saw a remarkable increase of over 20%.
Cam also discussed the minimal impact of recent US tariff measures on Vietnam, noting that the textile and garment industry had not been subjected to additional tariffs. Despite potential challenges, Vietnam’s textile and garment exports to the US continued to grow, indicating a robust market presence. He emphasized the need for compliance with US regulations to prevent indirect exports through third countries, especially in light of tightened controls.
Representatives from various units, including Hue Textile and Garment, Hoa Tho Textile and Garment, and Southern Textile and Garment – Vinatex, shared their perspectives. They noted signs of recovery in the garment industry during the first half of the year. However, there were concerns about a potential slowdown in the third quarter due to the uncertainty surrounding US tax policies. The influx of high-tech, small-scale orders, including knitted goods with higher technical requirements, presented both opportunities and challenges.
The session also featured success stories from Centexbel’s innovative projects. For instance, the development of a new scaffold for tissue engineering showed promising results in preclinical studies and could become a groundbreaking medical device for bone defects. Additionally, the creation of a clean mattress simulator to analyze the resistance of mattresses to cleaning processes highlighted their commitment to practical solutions.
Biobased materials were a recurring theme. Projects included the development of a biobased flame retardant for mattresses and biobased coatings for leather imitations. One notable innovation involved incorporating biobased additives into fibers to create fully biobased yarns. These efforts aimed to provide sustainable alternatives to polyester, which dominates the clothing industry.
Centexbel also invested in recycling technologies, demonstrating the potential of working with recycled plastics. Their facilities offered extensive support to the industry, from small lab-scale evaluations to pilot-scale simulations of industrial processes. The open innovation platform allowed companies to access these resources and collaborate on applied research projects.
The podcast underscored the importance of collaboration between research centers, industries, and educational institutions. Centexbel’s approach involved consortium projects with various partners, providing guidance, consultancy, and support to address specific industry challenges.
In conclusion, the podcast showcased Centexbel’s dedication to sustainable innovations in the textile industry. By focusing on biobased materials, recyclability, and practical applications, they are paving the way for a more sustainable future. The commitment to continuous investment in research and development, coupled with strong industry partnerships, positions Centexbel as a leader in driving positive change in the textile sector.
Centexbel, a research group dedicated to innovation in textiles and materials, is at the forefront of driving sustainability and performance improvements within the industry.
