Govt Targets 40 Markets For Textile Export Diversification Amid Global Uncertainty: Textiles Minister

New Delhi, Jul 14 (KNN) India is currently exporting textile products from over 550 districts, with export diversification helping the sector remain resilient despite global uncertainties, Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh said. 

The government has identified 40 countries as part of its diversification strategy, supported by ongoing and completed free trade agreements (FTAs).

“We have identified 40 nations for export diversification which we are working on; therefore, India's textiles exports did not suffer much despite global uncertainty," the minister noted.

Global Participation at Bharat Tex 2026

Participants from around 130 countries—including major markets such as the US, UK, Japan, Russia, South Africa, the UAE and Bangladesh—attended the event. 

On the sidelines of Bharat Tex 2026 on Tuesday, Singh told reporters that, “buyers from 130 countries have come. We are in the process of negotiating FTAs with various nations; some are underway while others have been signed. This shows we are ready to compete globally,” PTI reported.

He noted that the wide international presence reflects India’s growing role in the global textile trade.

MSMEs Drive Industry Presence

More than 90 per cent of exhibitors at the event are micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), highlighting the sector’s broad-based participation. He added that improved ease of doing business and policy support have helped key textile clusters such as Tiruppur, Surat, Ichalkaranji, Panipat and Ludhiana gain prominence.

Rising Global Interest from Buyers and Investors

The event is witnessing interest not only from global buyers but also investors exploring opportunities beyond traditional sourcing hubs. Singh highlighted that he is engaging with international stakeholders looking to diversify supply chains, particularly those seeking alternatives to China.

Policy Support and Trade Outlook

The government has waived import duty on cotton until October to support the industry. The minister also pointed out that global textile imports are estimated at around USD 900 billion, with India actively pursuing FTAs to improve market access in major importing countries.

Growth Targets for 2030

India aims to build a USD 350 billion textile market by 2030, comprising USD 100 billion in exports and a USD 250 billion domestic market. The domestic textile market has already grown from about USD 138 billion to nearly USD 190 billion in recent years, reflecting steady expansion in the sector.

(KNN Bureau)