A conference to promote Ethiopia's Textile and Garment Industry kicked off in Hilton Hotel, Addis Ababa on 8 February, 2016 under the theme "Towards Increasing Sustainability and Competitiveness in Ethiopia's textile and garment industry.

The conference aims to help improve the competitiveness of the Ethiopian textile and garment industry as contributor to sustainable employment generation and economic development of the country and is expected to promote awareness on the importance of social and environmental standards.

It is also expected to draw attention to key sustainability challenges within the Ethiopian textile and garment industry; and organize a continuous dialogue and joint action amongst stakeholders from the private, public and citizens sectors in Ethiopia.

The conference comprised various sessions, including a discussions forum: "Inputs: sustainability and competitiveness from field to fashion", and a plenary session: "Practitioner perspectives on sustainability", and breakout sessions: "Social and environmental standards for increased competitiveness and best practices form Bangladesh" and "Training approaches for effective skill development".

The conference would also focus on the opportunities and the way forward to improve the sustainability and competitiveness of the Ethiopian textile and garment industry.

The conference organized by stakeholder government Ministry offices, including Ministry of Trade, Ethiopian textile Industry Development Institute, and GIZ was attended by senior government officials, leaders form Ethiopian and international textile and garment manufacturers, and professionals from partner organizations.