India International Garment Fair sets stage for textile sector growth, global leadership

The event, organised by the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) in collaboration with major Indian garment associations, aims to showcase India’s prowess in the global apparel market.

| Updated: 26 June, 2024 3:18 pm IST
Union minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh inaugurates 71st edition of IIGF

NEW DELHI: Union Minister for Textiles, Giriraj Singh, inaugurated the 71st edition of the India International Garment Fair (IIGF)  at Yashobhoomi convention centre in Dwarka.

The event, organised by the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) in collaboration with major Indian garment associations, aims to showcase India’s prowess in the global apparel market.

In his inaugural address, Minister Giriraj Singh underscored the fair’s significance as a pivotal platform for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the textile sector, highlighting India’s diverse offerings and latest trends to international buyers.

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“Developing world-class manufacturing facilities is crucial to realising the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Make in India’ with ‘Zero Effect; Zero Defect’,” Minister Singh remarked, emphasising the government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and ease of doing business.

 

Singh projected India’s robust economic growth, citing a GDP growth rate of 7.2% and anticipated ascension to the third-largest economy by 2027-28. He outlined ambitious targets for the Indian apparel and textiles market, aiming to escalate its current $165 billion size to $350 billion, with a specific directive to achieve $50 billion by 2030.

The Minister also addressed competitive challenges, stating, “My challenge is not Bangladesh; I aim to surpass China in the textile industry.” He proposed creating small clusters across India to bolster raw material garment (RMG) exports, noting India’s abundant labour force and eco-friendly employment opportunities, especially for women.

Expanding on government initiatives, Minister Singh announced the extension of the Rs 10,000 crore Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to the garment sector, aimed at bolstering domestic manufacturing and exports. He emphasized revitalising textile parks and promoting green textiles as key priorities.’

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During the event, Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman of AEPC, acknowledged global headwinds impacting Indian apparel exports but highlighted the industry’s resilience amidst adversity. Meanwhile, Shri Mithileshwar Thakur, Secretary General of AEPC, emphasised the potential for Indian apparel exporters to expand into developed markets in the coming years.

 

The fair, which attracted more than 600 buyers from 50 countries, features knowledge sessions covering topics such as navigating global trade challenges, manufacturing excellence in apparel, and sustainable fashion trends. Additionally, two fashion shows daily from June 25 to 27 will spotlight collections exhibited during the event.

Giriraj Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment to fostering a robust textile industry through strategic initiatives and global partnerships. “We have made free trade agreements with more than a dozen countries,” he stated, highlighting India’s proactive approach in international trade negotiations.

 

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