On 26 February 2026, the Textile Trade Association – Textile Cluster, in cooperation with SIPPO, organized an online event titled “The Textile Industry in North Macedonia: Waste Assessment, Export Trends and Circular Solutions,” dedicated to the current situation and future development directions of the textile sector in North Macedonia.

During the event, key findings from the analysis of the Macedonian textile and apparel industry were presented, with a focus on export trends over the past two decades, structural changes within the sector, and its positioning in European markets. Particular attention was given to segments with growth potential, as well as to the challenges related to competitiveness, workforce availability, access to finance, and the increasingly demanding requirements for sustainability and transparency. Additionally, the results of the assessment of industrial textile waste generated during production were presented. The analysis combined data on material imports, exports of finished products, and interviews with companies in order to provide a realistic and consistent basis for planning future measures for reducing, treating, and recycling production waste.

In the second part of the event, the results of the mentoring and technical support (Technical Assistance Service – TAS) implemented within the VERDEinMED project were presented. Five companies received individualized expert support in the field of circular economy and ESG, including analysis of current processes, development of strategies, studies on alternative waste management solutions, environmental, health and safety audits, as well as improvements in operational procedures and regulatory compliance. The presented case studies demonstrated concrete steps toward more efficient use of resources and improved strategic positioning.

During the event, the role of the VERDE HUB as a national contact point within the VERDEinMED project was also presented, together with the VERDE Bussola methodology and the VERDE Bussola Handbook, which establish a structured model for identifying companies’ needs, providing mentoring and technical support, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the HUB.

The event confirmed the importance of a systemic approach to sustainability and the circular transition of the textile sector in North Macedonia.