Synthetic textiles industry navigates trade policies and advances circularity at Charlotte conference

The Synthetic Yarn and Fabric Association’s (SYFA) annual fall conference in Charlotte assembled industry leaders to map how fibre science, trade policy and circularity are reshaping synthetic textiles and the supply chains that serve brands and associations. According to the original report, the Sheraton Charlotte Airport Hotel hosted the two‑day event, themed “From Fiber Forward: Technology, Trade, and Transformation.

SYFA President Meredith Boyd opened the meeting by framing the sector as a strategic industry that underpins national security, environmental progress and economic competitiveness. Speaking at the conference, Boyd said: "Our theme this conference, 'From Fibre Forward: Technology, Trade, and Transformation,' captures what this moment means for our industry. Today, we’re no longer just a manufacturing sector; we’re a strategic industry that anchors national security, environmental progress, and economic competitiveness.

Trade and compliance emerged as a central concern for associations representing small and mid‑sized members. According to the conference agenda and reporting, Jeri Barutis of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina moderated a session with Felicia Pullam of APCO Worldwide that explored practical steps companies can take to navigate shifting trade policy and compliance regimes. Industry data presented at the session underlined the operational risks for firms that lack robust customs and sourcing controls.

Speakers also stressed the commercial and strategic value of advanced materials. DuPont representatives outlined how innovations with Kevlar® EXO™ deliver improved strength‑to‑weight ratios and flexibility for technical textiles, a topic that associations representing defence and protective apparel members found particularly relevant. According to the original report, presenters provided historical context and application examples to help attendees assess potential market adoption.

Federal trade policy and tariff outlooks prompted robust discussion. Longstanding industry adviser Auggie Tantillo reviewed recent developments, warning of potential changes to provisions such as the Berry Amendment and urging trade associations to coordinate advocacy and member guidance. The session underlined the role of trade bodies in shaping policy that affects domestic sourcing and procurement.

Circularity and feedstock innovation were showcased as practical pathways to sustainability. Reju described a selective depolymerization approach for polyester that links suppliers, brands and resellers into a closed‑loop network, while PureCycle Technologies discussed recycled polypropylene routes for fibre applications. According to the reporting, these presentations emphasized systems thinking and collaboration across the value chain.

On fibre innovation, speakers highlighted biobased and next‑generation polyesters. Kintra Fibres’ founder and CEO, Billy McCall, positioned his work as a scientist‑led attempt to address lifecycle impacts while preserving performance, a message likely to resonate with association members seeking credible sustainability stories for their stakeholders.

Economic context was provided for executives by Roger Tutterow of Kennesaw State University, who anchored technical and commercial decisions in macroeconomic trends. The session aimed to help association leaders advise members on pricing, demand cycles and capital planning amid uncertain global conditions.

Organizational outcomes from the conference included a renewed emphasis on member education, advocacy and partnership to scale circular technologies and manage trade risk. The association has scheduled its Spring Conference for 1–2 April 2026, and a fundraising golf event on 31 March 2026 to support the SYFA Scholarship at Gaston College, signalling continued investment in workforce and sector development. According to the original report, Boyd closed by reaffirming the industry’s adaptability and societal impact, saying: "We’re advancing a shared mission: to make textiles smarter, stronger, and more sustainable for the world we live in.