Future in Motion: Transformation, Innovation and New Realities

The global textile and apparel industry is entering a new phase of transformation.
Technology, sustainability and shifting economic realities are redefining how and where value is created.

The 41st IAF World Fashion Convention and the ITMF Annual Conference will come together for the third time as a joint event, this time together with joint member ABIT – The Brazilian Textile and Apparel Industry Association under the banner of the Brazil International Conference , taking place in Fortaleza, Brazil, on October 14–15, 2026.

Under the theme “Future in Motion: Transformation, Innovation and New Realities,” this landmark event will bring together leading executives, innovators, policymakers, and experts from across the global textile and apparel value chain.

As geopolitical shifts, technological acceleration and sustainability imperatives reshape the industry, the conference will explore how companies and institutions can adapt, innovate and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Why attend?

Following the success of our joint conventions in Samarkand and Yogyakarta, which brought together nearly 40 speakers and over 400 participants from 44 countries, the 2026 edition promises to be even more impactful.

Together, we will explore the key forces reshaping the industry—from shifting industrial geographies and fibre innovation to AI-driven manufacturing, regulatory change and evolving consumer behaviour.

What to Expect in Fortaleza

Industry Insights

Key discussions will address the transformations shaping the global industry, including:

• The new geography of global production
• Digitalisation, automation and AI in manufacturing
• The future of fibres and materials
• Innovation and start-ups
• The evolving regulatory and trade environment
• Changing consumer expectations and market dynamics

Global Speakers

Hear from global industry leaders, policymakers, economists, innovators, and executives from across the textile and apparel value chain.

Previous conventions have featured leaders from companies such as H&M, Inditex, MAS, Hugo Boss, Mango, Desigual, Esquel, PVH, and Zegna, Epic Group, and Escada,Target alongside experts from McKinsey,AAFA,WRAP, IFC, BCG, the World Bank, ILO and the OECD.

Global Networking

Meet manufacturers, brands, retailers, technology providers, investors, industry associations and policymakers from around the world. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect with decision-makers shaping the future of the global apparel and textile value chain.

Discover Brazil

Hosted in Fortaleza, the capital of Ceará in northeastern Brazil, the conference will highlight one of the world’s largest and most dynamic textile and apparel markets. Together with host ABIT, the event will showcase Brazil’s vibrant industry and growing innovation ecosystem.

Experience the IAF & ITMF Conventions

More than a conference, this event is a global platform for industry dialogue and collaboration. Beyond the conference sessions, ITMF and IAF will continue their tradition of hosting memorable and culturally rich social events.

This year the conference will host Gala Dinner facing the ocean and post conference tour possibly to Rio de Janeiro.

Join us in Fortaleza and be part of the conversations shaping the next chapter of the global textile and apparel industry.

Registration details and the full programme will be announced soon on the conference website.

For participation, sponsorship or general inquiries please contact: info@iafnet.com

We look forward to welcoming you to Fortaleza in October 2026.