Textile traders in Surat, Gujarat, anticipate a significant business upturn with Bangladesh’s textile mills set to go on an indefinite strike starting February 1. The strike, organized by the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA), protests against the duty-free import of low-cost yarn from India, impacting Bangladesh’s domestic textile sector. This move has led to financial challenges for Bangladeshi mill owners, potentially leading to industry shutdowns.
The disruption in Bangladesh’s textile industry is seen as an opportunity by Surat’s textile sector to enhance India’s global standing in garment manufacturing and exports. Kailash Hakim, President of Surat Federation of Textile and Trade Associations, highlighted the potential benefits for Indian textile exporters amidst the uncertainties in Bangladesh. He emphasized the quality of Indian yarn and the promising future for India’s textile and garment industry.
Bangladesh heavily relies on imported fabric, with limited local textile production capacity mainly focused on garmenting. With production disruptions expected in Bangladesh, there is a likelihood of international buyers turning to India for sourcing textile products. The Indian government and industry stakeholders are actively investing in skill development and infrastructure to position Indian textiles as a renowned global brand, with Surat emerging as a pivotal textile hub.
Textile and garment parks are being established nationwide, with Surat playing a crucial role in this development. Despite Bangladesh’s historical advantage in low-cost labor and skilled garment workers, Surat is narrowing the gap through cluster-based growth strategies and quality enhancements. The industry is emphasizing parts manufacturing, quality enhancements, and boosting exports to strengthen its position in the global market.
Local textile traders advocate for the establishment of a Research and Development center in Surat by the Indian government to foster innovation and advanced garmenting techniques. Surat, known for producing nearly 65% of India’s polyester fabric, holds a strategic position in the textile value chain. Traders in Surat are optimistic that the turmoil in Bangladesh’s textile industry could translate into increased export prospects for manufacturers based in Surat.
