Italian technology makers return strongly to Colombiatex in Medellín.
Italian textile machinery manufacturers are set to make a strong showing at Colombiatex 2026, the leading trade fair for the Colombian textile and apparel supply chain, scheduled to be held in Medellín from January 27 to 29. The upcoming edition underscores the enduring partnership between Colombian textile producers and Italian technology suppliers.
Although demand from Colombia’s textile sector softened during 2024, the country continues to rank among South America’s most important markets for textile machinery. Recent figures point to a clear turnaround in momentum. During the first half of 2025, Italian exports of textile machinery to Colombia reached €6 million, representing a 48% increase compared with the same period a year earlier. If this trajectory continues through the year, exports could approach the peak levels recorded in 2022, when shipments touched €18 million.
“The Colombian textile and clothing industry has shown significant development in recent years, supported by technological modernisation in which Italian machinery has frequently played a central role,” said Marco Salvadè, President, ACIMIT. He added that Colombiatex remains a strategic platform for Italian manufacturers to strengthen long-standing relationships with Colombian textile companies.
Continuing a well-established tradition, ICE – Italian Trade Agency, in collaboration with ACIMIT (Association of Italian Textile Machinery Manufacturers), will once again organise an Italian Pavilion at the fair, located in the Pabellón Amarillo. The pavilion will host 22 Italian companies, including Ugolini Srl, Lonati Spa, Santoni Spa, Itema Spa, Reggiani Macchine Spa, Tonello Srl and Fadis Spa, among others.
Italian participation will be further reinforced by several ACIMIT member companies exhibiting through individual booths or local representatives. These include Brazzoli Srl, Color Service Srl, Morgan Tecnica Spa and Monti Antonio Spa, highlighting the depth and diversity of Italy’s textile machinery expertise at Colombiatex 2026.