"Expanding the Use of Domestic Materials in Defense Is Essential for Security and Industrial Protection"

Korea Federation of SMEs Holds '2025 2nd Textile Industry Committee' Meeting

The Korea Federation of SMEs announced on the 18th that it held the '2025 2nd Textile Industry Committee' meeting in the boardroom of the Federation. This committee was established to develop strategies to strengthen the industrial competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises in the textile sector, including fashion color, fabric, and knitwear, and to help them respond to growth challenges.

During the meeting, presentations were made on topics such as ▲Strategies to promote the use of domestically produced textile materials in the defense sector ▲Proposed amendments to the Defense Business Act regarding the prioritization of domestic materials in military procurement, as well as discussions on current issues facing the textile industry. Park Yooncheol, Principal Researcher at the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, stated, "In modern warfare, it is important not only to have advanced weapon systems such as missiles but also to enhance the technological self-reliance of support systems like body armor." He explained, "Expanding the use of domestic materials in defense items is the first step toward increasing technological self-reliance and strengthening national security."

Principal Researcher Park particularly emphasized, "Textile materials used in uniforms and body armor are high-performance materials that incorporate various advanced technologies, such as ICT convergence, comfort-enhancing technologies, and quick-drying, moisture-wicking performance. These are essential elements for improving survivability and efficiency in actual combat environments." He stressed, "If we rely on imports, it will be difficult to achieve continuous technological advancement, so we must actively encourage the use of domestic materials based on the capabilities of domestic companies."

Following this, attorney Kim Geunho presented the 'Legislative Proposal for Prioritizing the Procurement of Domestic Textile Materials.' Attorney Kim explained, "Currently, there is no legal basis for the use of domestic materials in the Defense Business Act," adding, "This amendment establishes a new delegation clause in the Act and its enforcement decree, and gives binding power to subordinate regulations."

Kim Kwongi, Chair of the Textile Industry Committee, stated, "The textile industry is facing difficulties due to declining global demand and low-cost competition from China," emphasizing that the public sector should take the lead in expanding domestic demand. He added, "At a time when internal and external security risks are increasing, prioritizing the use of domestic textile materials in the defense sector can both strengthen national security and contribute to the competitiveness of the textile industry."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.