ITF Advocates Major Policy Changes to Enhance Textile Industry Competitiveness

New Delhi, Jul 12 (KNN) The Indian Texpreneurs Federation (ITF) has presented a comprehensive growth plan for the textile and apparel sector to Union Textile Minister Giriraj Singh, advocating for significant policy changes to enhance India's global competitiveness in the industry.

In a report submitted to the ministry on Wednesday, the ITF, led by convenor Prabhu Dhamodaran, outlined several key recommendations.

These include increasing monthly apparel exports beyond the current USD 1.5 billion, developing a ready-to-cut dyed fabric ecosystem, forging knowledge partnerships with leading man-made fibre (MMF) producers, and re-engaging with traditional markets such as Japan.

The federation emphasised the potential for India to capitalise on the ‘China-plus One’ strategy adopted by global buyers.

Noting that China's monthly apparel exports currently stand at USD 12 billion, the ITF suggested that India could steadily improve its export performance through focus on scale, competitiveness, specialisation, integration, and market diversification.

To enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness, the ITF proposed the development of a ready-to-cut dyed fabric ecosystem within India.

The report also stressed the importance of creating semi-integrated and integrated manufacturing capabilities to handle large-volume commodity apparel exports.

Addressing India's current 2 per cent market share in the USD 35 billion U.S. MMF apparel market, the ITF recommended establishing knowledge partnerships with countries specialising in MMF production.

The federation also suggested implementing similar collaborative initiatives within Indian manufacturing clusters.

These proposals come as the textile industry seeks to adapt to changing global market dynamics and strengthen India's position in the international apparel trade.

(KNN Bureau)