M Maniwanen, Chairman of Busana Apparel Group, Indonesia, envisions a textile industry where tradition and innovation intertwine. While acknowledging India's historical strength in cotton production, Maniwanen emphasizes the crucial need to embrace MMF to ensure the industry's future.
During an interview on the sidelines of Bharat Tex 2025, Maniwanen addressed the traditional divide between cotton and MMF. He pointed out the changing dynamics of the MMF market, noting that previously, a few large corporations dominated the sector. However, he sees significant opportunities arising from the Indian government's supportive policies, including incentives for land, labor, and capital, which are creating a fertile ground for smaller players and innovation. This support, he argues, is vital for the industry's evolution.
Maniwanen's vision centers on blending the inherent qualities of cotton with the advantages of MMF. He believes the future lies in creating fabrics that combine the softness and comfort of cotton with the durability and versatility of synthetic fibers. This approach, he contends, is not only about creating competitive products but also about achieving sustainability, a critical factor for the modern textile industry.
He actively fosters alliances with Indian textile manufacturers, sharing knowledge and resources to develop innovative and eco-friendly fabrics. The results of these collaborations are now visible. New collections showcase innovative designs blending cotton's rich textures with MMF's resilience.
Busana Apparel Group has emerged as a symbol of innovation, demonstrating that the future of textiles lies in embracing change, fostering collaboration, and weaving together the best of both natural and synthetic worlds.
