The Centre has set a target of $50 billion for textile exports this year as compared to $40 billion in the previous year.
“India, with $40 billion in textile exports, has moved up to second position from fourth last year. Exports are expected to reach $50 billion this year,” Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Union Minister of State for Textiles, said here on Monday. The minister was here to inaugurate a national garment fair organised by Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI).
The minister said the textiles sector had tremendous potential to grow. The government would do everything for improvement in exports, he added.
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“India is second largest manufacturer and exporter of textiles and clothing after China. Now efforts are on to connect with neighbouring countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Cambodia for overall improvement of business in this sector,” he added. He said the textile industry would generate large number of jobs. There was a need for labour law reforms considering the large number of unorganised labourers engaged in this industry, he added.
Mr. Gangwar said that the textile ministry would help in the establishment of 25-30 textile parks and several mega clusters for the development of the industry.
Rahul Mehta, President, The Clothing Manufacturers Association of India, said that the domestic garment industry had been somewhat sluggish for the last couple of months.
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“But now, we anticipate 12-15 per cent [growth rate] in the coming months. Exports are seeing a buoyant phase after a long time and this should continue for the next three to five years,” Mr. Mehta said.
CMAI is organising a three-day garment fair, which is expected to generate a business of Rs.500 crore.