After extensive consultations, ICMF initiated the process of establishing an umbrella organization for the textile industry in August 2000 by broad basing the coverage of its Member Associations to include independent weavers and processors. Later Member Associations were also advised to admit manufacturers of technical textiles and garments. In 2003-04 the Federation also started admitting associations and federations catering to textile segments not covered under ICMF, as Associate Members. Since many of the Associate Members were not connected with cotton or mill industry, it was felt that the name of the organization should also be broad based to represent the entire textile sector. The process reached its logical conclusion with the formation of CITI in May 2005.