BRUSSELS –INDA and EDANA have proposed the setting up of a Global Nonwoven Alliance (GNA), a new federation to provide international leadership for the representation and responsible advancement of the global nonwovens industry while respecting and benefiting its members.

With themselves as founding members, the separate tax-exempt federation will work to deliver a more unified and coordinated strategy toward the issues and opportunities faced by the industry.

The recommendation represents progress toward a vision of broad collaboration between INDA and EDANA detailed in their Letter of Intent in September 2024.

By aligning resources and expanding collaboration, the GNA will enable enhanced programmes and service value, reach and efficiency. These benefits will translate into increased local and regional benefits as well as driving innovation, operational efficiencies, and long-term industry growth, the two organisations said in a statement.

Under the proposed framework, INDA and EDANA will continue to operate as independent legal entities, maintaining their focus on regional markets and advocacy. They will also serve as founding members of GNA committed to leadership, staff and programme coordination designed to enhance collaboration on cross-border industry priorities.

While some organisational details, transition provisions and approval timelines are being assessed by the INDA and EDANA Boards, both have expressed their strong support for the vision and purpose of GNA and are committed to responsibly advance this initiative.

“INDA and EDANA remain committed to a transparent process, both for our members and the industry, and will provide regular updates as this work progresses,” the joint statement said.

“We encourage you to visit either the EDANA or INDA websites for GNA frequently asked questions or the EDANA booth during the IDEA25 show.”