NASTEX 2026 hosted a panel discussion titled “Industrial Economic Development and Exports: Towards a More Competitive and Sustainable Textile Industry”, featuring Dr Ayman Hamouiya, Assistant Minister of Economy and Industry for Economic Affairs, and Mohammad Al-Hamli, industrialist and businessman.
The session was moderated by Hassan Fallaha and held on 19 July 2026 at the main stage of the Damascus Fairgrounds as part of NASTEX’s programme of industry-focused discussions.
The panel created a space for dialogue among government institutions, industrial-sector representatives and business leaders on the future of Syria’s textile industry.
Industrial Development and Competitiveness
The session examined industrial economic development as a foundation for advancing the textile sector.
Participants highlighted the need to move beyond addressing daily operational challenges towards developing a long-term vision that improves the efficiency of industrial facilities and strengthens their capacity to produce and compete.
The discussion also focused on creating a more supportive environment for manufacturers and improving cooperation between government institutions and the private sector.
Such coordination can help enterprises develop their operations, modernise production processes and benefit from opportunities in domestic and international markets.
Syria’s textile industry is supported by a long history of production and accumulated professional and industrial expertise.
Developing the sector can therefore contribute to economic growth, job creation and a greater contribution by manufacturing to the national economy.
Exports as a Gateway to New Markets
Exports formed a central part of the panel due to their importance in expanding market access for Syrian products and encouraging companies to improve quality and comply with the standards required in target markets.
The participants discussed the need to develop products that can compete in terms of quality, price and design.
They also addressed the importance of improving marketing and promotional tools and strengthening the participation of Syrian companies in specialised exhibitions and commercial platforms.
Industrial planning must be linked to export opportunities so that production does not remain limited to domestic demand but also targets new markets capable of absorbing Syrian textile products.
Towards a More Sustainable Textile Industry
The panel also explored sustainability in textile manufacturing.
Sustainability was presented as a concept extending beyond environmental considerations to include the continuity of industrial enterprises, efficient resource use, skills development and higher added value.
Building a more sustainable industry requires investment in technology, modern production lines, improved management and innovation.
Manufacturers must also be supported in adapting to rapidly changing markets, production methods and consumer expectations.
Sustainability strengthens companies’ ability to continue growing, particularly amid regional and international competition and increasing expectations related to quality and responsible production.
Connecting Government Policy with Industrial Experience
The session brought together the government perspective presented by Dr Ayman Hamouiya and the practical industrial experience represented by Mohammad Al-Hamli.
This combination allowed the sector’s challenges and opportunities to be discussed from multiple perspectives.
Moderated by Hassan Fallaha, the dialogue helped connect economic policy with the practical needs of manufacturers and highlighted the importance of translating discussions into measures that support production and exports.
Such sessions provide an opportunity to hear directly from business owners, consider their proposals and establish communication channels with institutions involved in developing economic and industrial policies.
NASTEX as a Platform for Industry and Dialogue
The panel formed part of NASTEX’s wider role as a platform that goes beyond displaying products, machinery and technologies.
The exhibition also provides space to examine the major issues shaping the future of the textile sector.
By bringing together government officials, manufacturers, business leaders and experts, NASTEX enables the exchange of perspectives, the identification of challenges and the exploration of cooperation opportunities that could support the development of Syrian industry.
The discussions accompanying the exhibition highlight the importance of connecting industrial activity with economic dialogue to build an integrated vision for a Syrian textile sector that is more competitive, sustainable and export-oriented.