A successful Bharat Tex 2025 tour was held in London by AEPC.
India’s reliable partner, the UK: AEPC Chairman
London/New Delhi, November 30, 2024:The AEPC-organized Bharat Tex Roadshow, which took place in London, UK from November 27 to 29, 2024, was a huge success in terms of positioning and marketing the event abroad. Ms. Shubhra, the Trade Advisor for the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, graced the occasion. More than 100 people from the fashion industry’s most reputable brands, retail chains, and research organizations, including textile associations, attended the roadshow, which was one of the biggest in the international series. Mr. Roger Gilmartin Sr. Associate, Gherzi Consulting, Shri Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman of AEPC, and Shri Premal Udani, Chairman of the AEPC Export Promotion Committee, were among the other significant delegates who took part in the roadshow.
“India’s textile industry is witnessing transformative growth, underpinned by strong government initiatives and private-sector innovation,” said Ms. Shubhra, Trade Advisor MOT, in her speech. The groundwork for a globally competitive industry is being laid by important initiatives including PM MITRA Parks and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme. These programs provide international investors fantastic chances to collaborate with India’s textile development. India acknowledges the UK as a key partner in promoting innovation, expanding market access, and fostering sustainable growth. We are well-positioned to develop a more sustainable, inventive, and resilient supply chain that will benefit both countries, she said, given India’s emphasis on sustainability and ethical standards and the UK’s dedication to responsible sourcing and circular fashion.
“As we stand here today, we are on the threshold of exciting new opportunities to strengthen the already dynamic textile trade relationship between India and the UK—two vibrant economies ready to collaborate and chart the future of global textiles,” said Shri Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman of the AEPC, during the roadshow in London. With a total import value of USD 20.27 billion in 2023, the UK is the sixth-largest importer of clothing and a global center for fashion. India has always been a reliable partner for the UK because of its thriving textile and garment industry. India secured a 6.14% share of the UK textile and apparel market with USD 1.2 billion in exports to the UK in 2023 alone.In comparison to the same period last year, RMG shipments to the UK increased by 9.4% during the April–October 2024–25 period, which is encouraging, Chairman AEPC noted.
“We will celebrate this successful partnership at Bharat Tex 2025, underscored by shared values of quality, innovation, and sustainability,” added Shri Sekhri. Prominent UK companies who value the workmanship and sustainability inherent in our textiles, including Marks & Spencer, Primark, Next, Charles Tyrwhitt, Burberry, Dunhill, Clarks, and JW Anderson, already source premium items from India. Leading fast-fashion retailers Primark, Asos, and Boohoo also look to India for creative solutions that complement their dedication to sustainability and high quality. As we showcase India’s progress in eco-friendly materials, closed-loop manufacturing, and waste management—values that strongly align with the UK’s commitment to a sustainable future—these are the ideals that will be at the forefront of Bharat Tex 2025.”
Members of the team met with Shri Vikram Doraiswamy, India’s High Commissioner to the UK. The members of the group also talked on a number of topics pertaining to FTA, joint ventures, commerce, etc. The High Commissioner gave advice on how to host the Bharat Tex 2025 event successfully. He gave his word that UK textile companies are eager to learn more about Indian prospects and expand their cooperation.
On the sidelines of the London Roadshow, the delegation also met one-on-one with important stakeholders on November 27, 28, and 29 of 2024. The group talked on India’s standing as a world leader in textile production as well as prospects for additional export and innovation growth. The group investigated how using sustainable materials may lessen the impact on the environment and improve India’s standing as a producer of eco-friendly textiles. They also talked about research, development, and export tactics, as well as possible alliances and collaborations that could advance India’s textile sector.
Mr. Premal Udani, Chairman of the AEPC Export Promotion Committee, gave a presentation on Bharat Tex 2025.
The success of Bharat Tex 2024 is built upon by Bharat Tex 2025. Two esteemed locations will host the second edition: the India Expo Centre & Mart in Greater Noida from February 12–15, 2025, and Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi from February 14–17, 2025. The whole textile value chain will be on display at these locations, with a particular emphasis on important industries including dyes, chemicals, apparel machinery, and handicrafts.