Padma Shri Dr. A. Sakthivel, Chairman, AEPC & Honorary Chairman, TEA highlighted that FTAs with 11 countries are currently in operation and expressed that the much-anticipated India–EU FTA is expected to come into effect next year, providing greater market access for the Indian textile and apparel industry. He also stressed the importance of diversifying into Man-Made Fibres (MMF), noting that synthetic fibres account for around 65–70% of global fibre consumption. He stated that India’s current fibre mix is approximately 80% cotton and 20% MMF, and expressed the expectation that this could move towards 50% MMF and 50% cotton over the next five years. He further noted that international buyers are increasingly looking towards India and emphasised the need for the industry to capitalise on this opportunity. He thanked all members for their support and contribution towards the successful conduct of the event.
Mr. Kishan Daga , Concepts & Strategies, made a presentation on the MMF opportunities for India in FTA markets, covering the types of MMF products in demand across various countries and the leading international brands associated with these products. He also shared the brands’ perspective and outlined their key expectations from manufacturers. Mr. Mathew Walker, Creative Director, Nikayama Tradingz Pvt. Ltd., UK, spoke about the opportunities for expanding trade between India and the UK, particularly in the textile and apparel sector.
The IT Wing Sub-Committee, under the leadership of its Chairman Mr. Ramu Shanmugham , along with Mr. Sivaprakash, Founder, Feinit and Ms. Sonika, Founder, Sojo , made a presentation on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the apparel industry including its use in costing calculations, pattern making and responding to new buyer enquiries.
