The recently concluded 46th India International Knit Fair (IIKF), Tirupur witnessed fewer overseas buyers than last year. The fair, held from May 15 to 17, 2019, was organised by India Knit Fair Association (ITKF) and witnessed participation from around 27 garment manufacturers. Most of them, however, were not happy with the buyer visitation.

According to a ITKF spokesperson, 24 overseas buyers and around 127 Indian buying agents visited the show. The participants reported good business enquiries from the buying agents and overseas buyers with the expected business deal being around Rs. 300 crore. Some of the top apparel manufacturers of Tirupur, who displayed their latest collections in the event, were Eastman Export Global Clothing, Meridian Global Ventures, SCM Garments, KG Denim - Apparel Division, etc.

Irrespective of the event, some of the exhibitors shared that despite challenging market conditions they are geared up for growth and are taking necessary steps in this direction. For instance, Clifton Exports is adding new buyers in US market and increasing its focus on sustainability initiatives, interesting packaging, etc to get more orders. The company offers a wide range of products including kidswear, womenwear and undergarments.