Switzerland and Portugal Join Forces in Sustainable Innovation
Geneva, June 30, 2025 – The Swiss-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Services (CCISSP) enthusiastically welcomes a significant breakthrough that strengthens bilateral economic ties and positions Switzerland and Portugal at the forefront of sustainable innovation. The Portuguese company Altri, a leader in sustainable cellulose fiber production, has signed an agreement to acquire a majority stake in the Swiss company AeoniQ™️. This strategic partnership marks a major milestone in the sustainable textiles sector.
AeoniQ™️ is a pioneer in producing the world’s first biodegradable cellulose filament. Developed to replace synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon, this filament offers a far more sustainable environmental profile and a positive climate impact. Its elasticity, softness, and durability are remarkably similar to synthetic fibers, yet it is fully biodegradable in marine, terrestrial, and industrial composting environments, as certified by TÜV Austria and OEKO-TEX®️.
The agreement stipulates that the first AeoniQ™️ industrial unit will be established in Portugal at Altri’s Caima facility in Constância. Construction is set to begin in 2026, with an initial annual capacity of 1,750 tons. Prior to this, a pre-industrial unit will be launched to accelerate prototype development and brand partnerships.
This joint venture combines Altri’s extensive industrial expertise with the innovative technology of Switzerland’s HeiQ Materials AG, bringing the “AeoniQ” brand to life. The project integrates the entire production chain, from eucalyptus fiber to finished yarn, with ambitious future plans to incorporate recycled raw materials such as textile waste and bacterial cellulose, reinforcing the commitment to a circular economy.
The positive environmental impact of this collaboration is undeniable, as confirmed by two independent life cycle assessments, which demonstrate that AeoniQ™️ yarn reduces CO₂ emissions by at least 3.2 kg per kilogram compared to conventional polyester. The product has already been successfully integrated into capsule collections by renowned brands like Hugo Boss and Lameirinho’s “vegan silk” line, reflecting strong and promising market interest.
In addition to Altri, this joint venture benefits from the support of other key industry players, including Hugo Boss, MAS Holdings, and THE LYCRA COMPANY, the latter holding exclusive distribution rights.
José Soares de Pina, CEO of Altri, emphasizes the strategic importance of this agreement: “This deal realizes Altri’s strategy of moving up the value chain and investing in next-generation materials. We are scaling a transformative innovation that perfectly aligns with our commitment to building a more renewable world.”
The CCISSP warmly applauds such initiatives, which not only boost the economies of both nations but also actively promote more sustainable industrial practices. This agreement is a shining example of how Swiss innovation and Portuguese know-how can converge to create significant value and a positive global impact.
