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A graduate from the NED University in Karachi, Suboohi Arif has developed IntelliInspect, an AI-driven system to detect fabric defects in real time. This innovation promises to save considerable costs for the textile industry by identifying quality issues early in the production process. IntelliInspect addresses the recurring problem of rejected export consignments due to faulty textiles, a major challenge for Pakistan's largest export sector.
The AI-powered technology detects various defects in both knitted and woven fabrics, including broken threads, stains, tears, and holes. Unlike traditional inspection methods, IntelliInspect analyzes unprocessed (grey), dyed, and printed fabrics in real time. Tests on over 3,000 samples showed accuracy above 95 per cent for knitted fabrics and 90 per cent for woven fabrics, with detection times ranging from 40 to 77 seconds.
Using high-speed sensors and cameras installed on textile manufacturing lines, IntelliInspect quickly identifies defects during production. This prevents manufacturers from using faulty fabric, improving profitability by reducing production losses. The system has applications across various textile segments, including garment production, automotive textiles, home furnishings, and industrial textiles. It enhances efficiency, accuracy, and production continuity while lowering operational costs.
Arif is seeking collaborations with industry stakeholders to integrate IntelliInspect into manufacturing facilities, improving the quality of export products and maximizing business profits. She emphasizes that the technology not only reduces costs but also provides data-driven analytics for better decision-making. IntelliInspect has the potential to transform Pakistan's textile sector, which accounts for over half of the country's exports and has historically struggled with quality control. Widespread adoption of this technology could significantly boost the industry's global competitiveness, she adds.
A key player in the Indian textile industry, Mafatlal Industries achieved a major milestone as the company completed 120 years of operations in India. To commemorate this achievement, the company organized an event at its Nadiad plant, honoring four generations of leaders who contributed to its success. It also inaugurated its new experience center at the event showcasing Mafatlal's history through visuals and artifacts.
Priyavrata Mafatlal, Vice-Chairman, Arvind Mafatlal Group, expressed gratitude to employees, partners, and supporters. Looking forward, the company remains committed to innovation, sustainability, and community engagement. The anniversary celebration recognized the company's past while inspiring future generations to continue its tradition of excellence.
With inflationary pressures impacting textiles demand during the festive season, Trident’s consolidated net profit increased by 27 per cent Y-o-Y to Rs 797 million in Q3, FY25. A supplier of home textiles to major global retailers such as Walmart, Target, Ikea and JC Penney, the company reported a 9 per cent decline in revenue to Rs 16.67 billion during the quarter.
The company’s revenues across all four segments declined. Accounting for 41 per cent of total revenue, sales from the company’s yarn segment fell by 5 per cent while sales in the towels, bedsheets and paper and chemicals segments declined by 10 per cent, 13 per cent and 17 per cent respectively.
This revenue decline persisted despite the third quarter coinciding with the country's festive season, where retailers register a boost in demand as consumers splurge on products. The revenue decline also surpassed expenses, which contracted by about 7.2 per cent to Rs 15.79 billion, mainly due to lower raw material costs.
As per analysts at Antique Stock Broking, textiles sales in India have been dampened by persistent inflationary pressures that continue to reduce consumer demand and lower discretionary spending.
In October 2024, India's retail inflation increased to 6.21 per cent. This figure continued to remain above the Central Bank’s medium-term target of 4 per cent despite a slowdown in the following two months.
A new report by Cotton Incorporated, ‘Cotton As A Possible Bellwether for Global Economies: Why International Cotton Markets Matter’, brings good news for India's cotton industry. The report predicts a stable global cotton market in 2025, with favorable pricing and increasing global demand, offering opportunities for Indian cotton growers and textile manufacturers.
Report findings
Supply: Global cotton production is projected to increase in the 2023-24 crop year, with favorable weather conditions in key producing countries like the US and India. However, potential disruptions like pest infestations and water scarcity could impact output.
Demand: Despite a slight uptick in demand, the global cotton market is expected to remain relatively balanced in the coming years. The study notes that mill use, a key indicator of demand, is projected to increase modestly.
Pricing: Cotton prices have been volatile in recent months, influenced by factors such as fluctuations in the US dollar, changes in speculative activity, and shifts in demand from major consuming countries. The study anticipates continued price volatility in the near term.
Global cotton production outlook
The U.S. Department of Agriculture expects a rise in global cotton production in 2024/25, with an increase of 3.12 million bales to 116.2 million. World mill-use is also projected to grow by 1.4 million to 115.2 million.
United States: A significant increase in production is expected, primarily due to the unusually small crop in 2023. Hot and dry conditions in West Texas impacted the previous year's harvest.
China: As the world's largest cotton producer, China's production increased by 300,000 bales last year. The country also holds reserve stock, making it well-supplied for 2025. However, a housing market crisis and cautious consumer spending could affect demand.
India: The second largest cotton grower faces challenges due to weather and government intervention through minimum support prices (MSPs). This could lead to the government holding cotton stock and potentially selling at a loss.
Pakistan: Cotton production decreased due to seed quality issues, flooding, and extreme heat.
Brazil: With its ability to plant two crops a year, Brazil could be a key player in 2025. The country's record crop last year and its impact on global prices are noteworthy.
Table: Cotton production
Region Production (mn bales) Mill use (mn bales) World 119.5 115.9 United States 18.5 3.3 India 26.5 25 China 30 39
The study highlights India's growing importance in the global cotton market. With a projected increase in both production and mill use, India is poised to play a significant role in meeting global cotton demand. China remains the world's largest consumer of cotton. However, the study notes that recent policy changes and shifts in domestic consumption patterns could impact China's cotton imports in the coming years.
Stable global market benefits Indian growers
Cotton Incorporated forecasts stable cotton prices in 2025, a welcome change from recent volatility. This stability is crucial for Indian farmers who have faced fluctuating incomes due to unpredictable market conditions. Experts point out this stability should enable better planning for Indian cotton growers. Predictable pricing allows farmers to make informed decisions about planting and invest in their operations with greater confidence.
India's role in the global cotton landscape
The report acknowledges India's position as the second largest cotton grower globally. While acknowledging recent weather challenges impacting Indian production, the report highlights the role of India's Minimum Support Price (MSP) system in supporting farmers' livelihoods.
The report also points out challenges for India, including the potential for government-held cotton stocks to be released into the market at a loss, impacting prices. However, the projected increase in global mill use, particularly in countries like China, offers a significant opportunity for India to increase exports and strengthen its position in the global cotton value chain. "Indian textile manufacturers should capitalize on this growing demand by focusing on quality and sustainability to compete effectively in the international market."
The study's findings have significant implications for various stakeholders in the cotton value chain, including farmers, textile mills, and consumers. Understanding the dynamics of the global cotton market is crucial for making informed decisions and navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
A look at the growing potential of India's fashion, apparel, and textile trade with ASEAN countries
India's relationship with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is blossoming, driven by the 'Act East Policy' and a shared vision for economic growth. Here is a look at the exciting potential for collaboration in the fashion, apparel, and textile sectors, drawing insights from the provided article, current data, and expert opinions.
India-ASEAN trade partnerships
In India-ASEAN trade, apparel and textiles are key sectors and it is driven by several factors. Uppermost is the complementary economies as India's strength in raw materials and skilled labor complements ASEAN's manufacturing prowess and growing consumer markets. The India-ASEAN Free Trade Area (AIFTA) has significantly reduced trade barriers, boosting bilateral trade. Also, they have shared cultural heritage and aesthetics that facilitate a deeper understanding of consumer preferences. And initiatives like UPI-PayNow linkage enhance financial transactions, making cross-border trade smoother.
In fact, Singapore's robust trade and investment relationship with India exemplifies the potential for collaboration. As the largest source of FDI into India, Singaporean companies are actively investing in India's fashion and textile industries. On similar lines, platforms like Shopee and Lazada are witnessing an increase in cross-border fashion trade between India and ASEAN. Indian ethnic wear and textiles are gaining popularity in Southeast Asia, while ASEAN's trendy apparel finds a market in India.
Table: India ASEAN trade overview
|
Indicator |
Value |
|
India-ASEAN total trade (2018-19) |
$96.79 bn |
|
Projected India-ASEAN total trade (2025) |
$300 bn |
|
Cumulative FDI from Singapore to India (2000-2024) |
$ 159.94 bn |
|
ASEAN's projected growth rate (2024) |
4.60% |
The way forward
However, despite the collaborations there are some challenges in future growth. Non-tariff barriers are bug bear as technical regulations and standards can hinder trade. Harmonization efforts are crucial. Improving connectivity and streamlining supply chains are must to further enhance trade efficiency. Simultaneously, promoting ethical sourcing and sustainable production practices is essential for long-term growth.
The Northern India Textile Mills’ Association (NITMA) is urging the government to implement a Minimum Import Price (MIP) across all of Chapter 60 to effectively curb unchecked fabric imports. This call comes as domestic manufacturers struggle to compete against a rise in cheaper imports, often facilitated by fraudulent practices. NITMA has appealed to Prime Minister Narender Modi for intervention, citing significant financial losses to both the industry and the government.
NITMA is specifically targeting under-invoicing of synthetic knitted fabrics under Chapter 60 and the misdeclaration of HS codes at Indian ports. Despite existing MIPs on 13 HSN codes, imports continue to rise under non-MIP codes, rendering the current measures ineffective.
A recent crackdown by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) led to the seizing of 100 containers of Chinese fabric at Mundra Port, valued at an estimated Rs 200 crore. Falsely declared as low-cost fabric, the shipment actually contained high-quality textiles, indicating an attempt to evade import duties. The declared value of the shipment was Rs 25 crore, suggesting significant under-invoicing. Similar seizures have occurred at other major ports, including Nhava Sheva Port, raising concerns about widespread fraud.
The DRI has launched a nationwide investigation to identify those responsible for the illegal imports, trace the goods, and expose the network of importers involved. The Federation of Surat Textile Traders Association (FOSTTA) had previously warned the DRI about systematic misdeclaration in textile imports, alleging that thousands of containers are imported monthly under incorrect classifications to circumvent the MIP. FOSTTA estimates that this practice has resulted in a revenue loss of Rs 85,000 crore.
Importers are reportedly exploiting loopholes by shifting imports from Chapter 60 to Chapter 59, which currently lacks MIP safeguards. FOSTTA identified Mundra Port, Mundra SEZ, and Nandiambakkam SEZ as key entry points for these illicit imports, also naming suspected importers.
Sidharth Khanna, President, NITMA, points out, some importers are declaring fabric at approximately $1 per kg, while the actual global price is $4–6 per kg, further demonstrating the scale of under-invoicing. He emphasizes on the urgent need for stricter regulations to protect the Indian textile industry. The government now faces increasing pressure to address these loopholes and implement effective measures to safeguard domestic manufacturers from unfair trade practices.
A leading textile manufacturer, Nutech Global will exhibit its diverse range of high-quality fabrics at Colombiatex de las Américas 2025 in Medellín, Colombia, from January 28-30, 2025. The company will showcase its products at Stall No. BL086 in the Plaza Mayor Convention and Exposition Center.
An ISO 9001:2015 certified company, Nutech Global is a key player in the textile industry since 1984.The company specializes in synthetic suiting, shirting, uniforms, readymade garments, and home textiles. It has an annual production capacity of 4.80 million meters and serves both domestic and international markets, offering premium fabrics including 100 per cent cotton, polyester-cotton blends, polyester-viscose, and elastane/lycra.
A premier global textile trade fair, Colombiatex de las Américas connects industry leaders, innovators, and buyers. The event highlights Latin America’s unique offerings and fosters regional production linkages, adding value to the global textile industry.
According to Rohan Mukhija, Head-Business Development, Nutech Global, the event provides the company with an opportunity to not only showcase innovative fabric solutions to an international audience but also engage with global buyers, strengthen relationships, and explore new collaborations. The company continues to analyze emerging market trends and customize their offerings to meet evolving industry demands, he emphasizes.
Committed to textile innovation, Nutech Global combines cutting-edge technology with traditional expertise. The company’s customer-centric philosophy ensures, each of its fabrics meets stringent quality standards while also catering to diverse market needs in fashion, uniforms, home textiles, and performance fabrics. Furthermore, Nutech Global is dedicated to sustainability, embracing eco-friendly practices and responsible manufacturing to align with global standards and consumer expectations.
A primary driver of the apparel and footwear sales, the global sportswear market is projected to grow by 14.9 per cent from 2024-29.
As per a report by Euromonitor International, this growth will be fuelled by an increasing focus on health and wellness globally. Sportswear is fast becoming a staple in wardrobes worldwide as consumers increasingly focus on comfort and functionality.
Southeast Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa regions are driving growth in global sportswear market as rapid economic growth and rising consumer spending in these regions offer brands significant growth opportunities.
With 33 per cent contribution, the Asia Pacific region is expected to register the highest growth in total value of apparel and footwear sales over this period.
In 2024, the global apparel and footwear market grew by 2 per cent as against 4.2 per cent growth registered by outerwear, 3.7 per cent by womenswear, 3.9 per cent by menswear and 5.9 per cent by footwear.
Till 2029, total global sales in these categories are forecasted to grow by 4.3 per cent as consumers preferences continue to shift with experience of shopping over the material value of goods being preferred.
The All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) Southern Zone has strongly opposed the Economic Coordination Committee’s decision to raise gas tariffs for Captive Power Plants (CPPs) by 16.7 per cent, from Rs 3,000/MMBTU to Rs 3,500/MMBTU. APTMA warned that this move could severely impact Pakistan’s export-oriented textile sector, which contributes 60 per cent to the country’s total exports.
APTMA’s spokesperson, Naveed Ahmed, criticized the increase, calling it the ‘final nail in the coffin’ for an industry already grappling with high production costs and global competition. He highlighted that gas tariffs have rised by 311 per cent over two years, making energy costs prohibitively expensive. "With the highest energy costs in the region, coupled with high borrowing and taxation, Pakistani textiles are losing their competitive edge," he stated.
The tariff hike disproportionately targets CPPs while leaving other sectors, such as fertilizer and domestic users, unaffected, a move APTMA deems discriminatory. Ahmed noted that many industries in Sindh and Balochistan rely on gas-based CPPs due to unreliable grid electricity.
Ahmed further emphasized that billions of rupees have been invested in CPPs to ensure uninterrupted power supply, as grid electricity remains inconsistent and inadequate. He urged the government to reverse the tariff hike to protect export markets and meet growth targets set under the Uraan Pakistan Program.
APTMA called for fair energy policies, warning that without immediate action, Pakistan risks losing its hard-earned global textile markets.
An interactive workshop titled, ‘Handloom Conclave: Manthan,’ will be held on January 28, 2025, at Dr Ambedkar International Centre in Janpath, New Delhi. This gathering aims to bring together key stakeholders in the Indian handloom sector, including weavers, manufacturers, retailers, and entrepreneurs, to discuss strategies for growth and achieve the Prime Minister's vision of ‘Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion to Foreign.’
Over 250 participants, including government officials, industry experts, and handloom beneficiaries, will attend this conclave featuring three key technical sessions. The first session at the conclave will on ‘Supporting the Handloom Startup Ecosystem.’ This session will explore government initiatives to foster a thriving environment for startups in the handloom sector.
The second session titled, ‘Handloom Marketing Avenues and Strategies’ will feature best practices and strategies from experienced panelists for effectively marketing handloom products. Titled, ‘Attracting Young Weavers,’ the third session will focus on strategies to make the handloom sector appealing to younger generations and create a sustainable value chain by leveraging technology and digital platforms.
The conclave will serve as a crucial platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, share best practices, and collectively chart the future of the Indian handloom sector. By fostering innovation and collaboration, the event aims to enhance the livelihoods of weavers and position the handloom sector as a key driver of economic growth for ‘Viksit Bharat 2047.’
A few key attendees at the event will include Giriraj Singh, Union Minister of Textiles as the Chief Guest; Minister of State for Textiles as the Guest of Honor, Neelam Shami Rao, Textile Secretary, Development Commissioner for Handlooms, and government officials, industry experts, startup founders, handloom cooperatives, academicians, e-commerce platforms, retailers, and weavers.
