Building on the decade-long success of the Textile Research Conference (TRC), first introduced by CRISAT (Centre of Research & Innovation in Science, Arts & Technology) in 2014, the 7th Textile Research Conference (TRC) 2026 successfully brought together researchers, academics, industry leaders, policymakers and students from Bangladesh and abroad at BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology (BUFT), Dhaka, creating a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration on the future of the textile and apparel sector.
Jointly organised by CRISAT and BUFT, the conference showcased pioneering research and innovative solutions addressing some of the industry’s most pressing challenges, including sustainability, circularity, digital transformation, advanced manufacturing, smart textiles and renewable energy.
The conference featured more than 20 research presentations across parallel technical sessions. Researchers presented findings on topics ranging from biodegradable dyes, bio-based textile composites and intelligent textile sensors to artificial intelligence applications, textile waste forecasting models, sustainable packaging solutions and renewable energy adoption within textile manufacturing.
A major highlight of the conference was the keynote address delivered by Professor Engr. Dr. Hafsa Jamshaid of National Textile University (NTU), Pakistan, entitled “Beyond Recycling: Transforming Textile Waste into High-Value Technical Textiles and Advanced Materials.” The presentation explored innovative pathways for textile waste valorisation and circular material development.
The conference also welcomed Nihong Pang from Chengdu Qinggong Polytechnic University, China, who shared valuable insights on navigating emerging European sustainability regulations and compliance requirements affecting global textile exporters.
Distinguished guests attending the conference included Prof. Dr. Mamun Ahmed, Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh; Mr. Mahmud Hasan Khan, President of BGMEA; and Mr. Mesbha Uddin Ali, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, BUFT, alongside senior representatives from academia, industry and government.
The formal plenary session featured an opening address delivered by Dr. Abu Sadat M. Sayem, Founder of CRISAT and Programme Leader (Textile) at Loughborough University, United Kingdom, followed by a concluding address from Prof. Dr. Engr. Ayub Nabi Khan, Vice Chancellor of BUFT. Both speakers emphasised the critical role of research, innovation and international collaboration in shaping a more sustainable and resilient textile industry.
The event also celebrated emerging talent through the BUFT–CRISAT–CENTRO Digital Fashion Catwalk Competition (DFCC) 2026, where finalists showcased innovative digital fashion concepts that combined creativity, technology and sustainability. In parallel, the CRISAT 5-Minute Research Competition 2026 challenged early-career researchers to communicate complex research ideas in a concise and engaging format.
Awards and certificates were presented during the closing ceremony, recognising outstanding contributions in research communication, innovation and digital design.
Speaking on the success of the conference, organisers noted that TRC 2026 demonstrated the growing importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing the environmental, technological and economic challenges facing the global textile and apparel industry. The conference reinforced Bangladesh’s position as an emerging hub for textile research and innovation while strengthening international networks between universities, research organisations and industry partners.
The organisers expressed their gratitude to all speakers, delegates, sponsors, judges, volunteers and participating institutions whose contributions made the conference a success.