WELCOME TO THE GLOBAL NONWOVENS SUMMIT

An initiative of ANFA, EDANA and INDA

MISSION STATEMENT

Composed members from the nonwovens trade associations, ANFA, EDANA and INDA, the Global Nonwovens Summit will promote awareness of the nonwovens fabrics Industry, identify priority areas of interest on a global basis, act collaboratively, monitor and share information and speak with one voice to support the development, growth and profitability of nonwoven markets and trade.

SCOPE

The Global Nonwovens Summit represents the interest of the entire value chain within the nonwovens and engineered fabrics industry and will actively address issues on a global basis.

PRIORITY AREAS

Tariffs & duties

There are 3 - 4 current issues that matter in trade between the USA, European Union, Japan and China. This team will identify the issues and define the path forward to address the issues. Global business and nonwoven industry executives are free traders and desire zero duties and tariffs.

Coordination & Support for a Single Major Trade Show in Asia on the Triennial Cycle

There are several events in Asia every year with five major shows in China, alone. This team will attempt to invite associations to join forces and organise around one voice and one major show for the region.

Innovation to Fight Commodity Status for Nonwovens

As nonwoven fabrics become commodities, profit margins shrink or are eliminated. Lack of profits restrict or eliminate Research & Development. Innovation slows in both industry and academia. This is a vicious cycle that, left unmanaged, will threaten the health of the industry. This team will suggest new ways of doing business that will change the current paradigm and motivate organisations to invest in R&D.

Nonwoven Quality Standards and Unified Test Methods

Unified and harmonised test methods for nonwoven fabrics are the first step in establishing performance standards for nonwovens. This activity has begun through INDA and EDANA Standard Test Methods Committees. A single book of test methods was issued by both associations by early 2005 and will be updated in 2008 in the frame of INDEX 08.