Addressing international trade shifts, Piyush Goyal, Commerce and Industry Minister, urged Indian textile exporters to embed ethical trading, circular recycling, and strict quality compliance to strengthen the 'Make in India' brand across high-value markets.
With total textile and apparel exports standing at $35.52 billion, the Ministry aims to scale total shipments toward $100 billion by 2030. Industry leaders emphasize, adopting fair trade norms and zero-liquid-discharge systems is critical as Western buyers enforce tighter environmental, social, and governance (ESG) rules. Exporters must transition from competing on basic labor costs to delivering high-quality, design-led, and certified sustainable garments under our expanding network of free trade agreements, notes Premal Udani, Chairman, Apparel Export Promotion Council.
Infrastructure expansion and market diversification
To offset export headwinds and input price volatility, apparel manufacturers are utilizing state-backed infrastructure projects like the Rs 1,695 crore PM MITRA Park in Telangana to consolidate production chains and cut logistics expenses. Tirupur-based exporter KPR Mill serves as an operational benchmark, having integrated 100 per cent renewable power, zero-discharge water recycling, and certified fair-wage practices across its production lines. Domestic manufacturers expect these audit-ready compliance capabilities to unlock preferential tariff advantages under active trade pacts with the UK, Australia, and the UAE.
A $225-billion integrated manufacturing engine
India's textile sector processes natural and synthetic fibers into yarns, technical fabrics, and ready-made garments for domestic consumers and major export destinations in Europe, North America, and the Middle East. Rooted in traditional handlooms, the $225 billion industry projects reaching $350 billion by 2030 through mega-parks and PLI support.
