The board of directors of European nonwovens body EDANA is to meet with nonwoven producers in Istanbul in April as part of its objective to engage local markets in the ongoing development of the nonwovens and related industries.

EDANA says it recognises the importance of trade to both the Turkish, and broader European nonwovens markets, and strongly supports fair and free trade for businesses operating across the globe. With approximately 12% market share for the import of nonwovens into and export to the European Union markets, EDANA says it has confidence in the long-term and continued growth of the country’s nonwovens market and its contribution to the industry’s development.

“Turkey is an important part of our global business strategy, and we are committed to supporting the development of the market in any way possible” said Pierre Wiertz, General Manager of EDANA.

EDANA says it is committed to growing its support of companies, based on local demands and as out member base continues to grow. This is especially important in growth markets like Turkey, as their trade balance with Europe and other regions rises, and their economy transitions to become increasingly open to international trade. This has been seen across Turkey, with its increasing openness to international trade, as evidenced by its commitments to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and free trade agreements with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).

“Turkey’s position, linking Europe and Asia is an advantage in reaching consumers in Europe, Russia, Central Asia, the Middle East and Africa, and we look forward to seeing per capita nonwovens consumption figures in the region catching up with those in Western Europe.” Said Wiertz

“This visit will be an opportunity for an exchange of views our members, and other nonwovens companies on the status and perspective for the industry, the trade between Turkey and the EU, the services EDANA is offering to support the continued and long-term growth of the Turkish nonwovens industries, and the fair and free trade between Turkey and the European Union,” Wiertz adds.

EDANA, serves the nonwovens and related industries (previously known as the European Disposables and Nonwovens Association), and has more than 200 member companies in over 30 countries. Its mission is to create the foundation for sustainable growth of the nonwovens, absorbent hygiene products and related industries through active promotion, education and dialogue. Information about upcoming events can be found at www.edana.org