Bharat Tex 2026 has officially wrapped up, marking the most successful chapter in the event’s history. The four-day textile extravaganza solidified India’s reputation as a premier global sourcing hub for apparel and textiles, drawing unprecedented interest from international markets and major industry stakeholders.
The event was launched by India’s Union Minister of Textiles, Shri Giriraj Singh, alongside Minister of State for Textiles, Shri Pabitra Margherita, and Ministry Secretary Ms. Neelam Shami Rao. Central to this year's success was the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), which acted as the driving force behind the event’s robust apparel segment.
A powerhouse for global networking
The AEPC’s efforts were instrumental in creating a high-impact environment for business. By facilitating the participation of 416 apparel exhibitors, the council successfully bridged the gap between local manufacturers and the international market. The event hosted 1,365 international buyers and 722 buying agents, creating one of the most significant B2B sourcing platforms in the global textile industry.
Beyond sheer numbers, the caliber of attendees was notable. The floor saw engagement from top-tier CEOs and CXOs representing major European apparel brands. Official business delegations from Japan, Russia, Spain, and Poland were also in attendance, signaling a strong international appetite for Indian-made apparel.
Driving investment and policy synergy
Investment promotion served as a cornerstone of the 2026 edition. A dedicated Trade and Investment session, led by Minister Giriraj Singh and AEPC Chairman Dr. A. Sakthivel, showcased the vast opportunities across India’s textile value chain. The session emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering both domestic and foreign direct investment to modernize and scale the nation's manufacturing capabilities.
A defining highlight of the event was the official implementation of the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The session "India–UK CETA in Action" drew significant attention, as industry leaders discussed how the agreement will streamline trade and reshape the future of textile exports between the two nations.
Strengthening the manufacturing ecosystem
During the conference, the AEPC took concrete steps to bolster regional growth, notably signing a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Madhya Pradesh. This partnership aims to enhance the state’s apparel manufacturing ecosystem. Meanwhile, the Tiruppur apparel cluster—a key hub for Indian garment production—garnered intense interest from buyers looking to diversify their supply chains.
Throughout the week, the AEPC participated in critical workshops covering sustainability, innovation, and manufacturing competitiveness. These sessions underscored India’s shift toward eco-friendly production methods, an initiative that resonated deeply with international buyers seeking reliable and sustainable supply chain partners.
Looking toward the future
Reflecting on the event’s success, Dr A Sakthivel, Chairman, AEPC, notes, the momentum generated this year is unprecedented. Bharat Tex 2026 has been the industry’s most successful edition yet, says Dr Sakthivel. The overwhelming response from global brands reinforces confidence in India’s manufacturing prowess. With the India-UK CETA and existing FTAs with 38 other countries now in play, Indian exporters have an incredible window of opportunity. The industry is committed to building on this momentum to ensure India remains a trusted, leading global apparel sourcing destination, he adds.
As the dust settles on this historic gathering, the consensus among participants is clear: India is not just participating in the global textile market—it is helping define its future.
