
Unleashing Potential: Bharat Tex 2026 Calls on Apparel Leaders to Champion India as the Premier Textile Sourcing Hub
In a significant call to action, A. Sakthivel, chairman of the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), underscored the critical role of global apparel brands in bolstering India’s stature as a premier sourcing destination. Speaking at the recent Bharat Tex 2026 round-table discussion in Bengaluru, Sakthivel emphasized the need for a concerted effort to enhance the nation’s textile and apparel industry.
Highlighting the challenges facing the sector, he pointed to existing gaps in technology and quality that must be addressed to elevate India’s global position in apparel manufacturing. “Bridging these gaps is essential for our continued growth and competitiveness,” he stated, urging stakeholders to adopt innovative practices that can propel the industry forward.
Sakthivel also recognized the necessity of strategic imports of specialized fabrics in the short term. This, he argued, would complement ongoing initiatives to strengthen and localize the domestic supply chain. He stressed that a robust supply chain is vital for the industry’s sustainability and its ability to meet global demands.
Promoting India as a sourcing hub requires not only investment in technology but also a focus on nurturing local talent and enhancing quality standards. Sakthivel called for collaboration among various stakeholders, including government bodies, textile manufacturers, and educational institutions, to foster an environment conducive to innovation.
As the apparel industry evolves globally, India must adapt to emerging trends and consumer preferences. The integration of sustainable practices and ethical sourcing will also play a pivotal role in attracting international brands. “We must align our manufacturing processes with global sustainability standards to remain relevant in the international marketplace,” he added.
The AEPC chairman’s remarks come at a time when the global textile industry is increasingly looking towards Asia for sourcing solutions. With its rich heritage in textiles and a growing commitment to modernizing the sector, India is well-positioned to capture a larger share of the global market. However, achieving this potential will require a dedicated focus on improving infrastructure, enhancing technology adoption, and ensuring quality compliance.
As the round-table discussion concluded, participants expressed a consensus on the need for a united approach. Both the public and private sectors must rally behind the textile industry, ensuring it evolves into a dynamic player on the world stage. Sakthivel’s insights serve as a clarion call for stakeholders to engage in a collaborative effort to realize the full potential of India’s textile and apparel industry.
With the textile sector expected to play a crucial role in India’s economic growth, scaling up efforts in sourcing, technology, and quality is not just beneficial but imperative. The future of Indian textiles depends on proactive measures and smart strategies that not only promote local capabilities but also appeal to global markets.
In summary, the ongoing discourse around India’s textile and apparel industry reiterates the importance of addressing existing challenges and leveraging opportunities. Strengthening the local supply chain, embracing technological advancements, and aligning with global best practices will be key to establishing India as a leader in the global textile arena. As the country moves forward, it remains to be seen how effectively it can implement these strategies to secure its position in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/buying-houses-of-apparel-brands-urged-to-promote-india-as-a-sourcing-destination/article70905621.ece
Category : India
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Publish Date: 2026-04-26 09:16:00

