France and Japan formalize textile cooperation

France and Japan recently agreed to formalize a partnership by signing a “Memorandum of Cooperation for Textiles.” The agreement follows a six-year relationship between Up-Tex and Techtera, the two French innovation clusters; and the major Japanese entities in the textiles and advanced materials sector: The Japan Chemical Fiber Association, and The Society for Fiber Science and Technology of Japan.

Signing comes two years after the establishment of a Franco-Japanese workgroup, which, in its first three meetings (held in 2013) had already laid the foundations for strengthening ties between the two countries through an action plan involving meetings, exchanges, dissemination of information and joint projects. The agreement clarifies the specific action to be undertaken jointly by the two governments, and is to be redefined in three years.

In addition to meetings, joint seminars and exchange of contacts and information, the agreement calls for joint research and development, cooperation in the fashion and clothing industry and action to strengthen the dialogue between the two governments.