FAB show 2026 opens in Mumbai amid rapid industry push for AI and sustainability
3 April 2026, Mumbai
The 6th edition of the Fabrics, Accessories & Beyond Show (FAB Show 2026) launched today at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, signalling a pivotal moment for India’s textile supply chain. Organized by the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI), the event serves as a barometer for the industry’s resilience during a period of complex global supply chain shifts. With more than 14,000 trade visitors expected from 320 cities and 27 countries, the show marks a transition from traditional sourcing to a high-tech, efficiency-driven marketplace designed to boost India’s standing as a global manufacturing hub.
Global integration and the evolution of domestic hubs
A defining development of this edition is the launch of the International Pavilion, which brings global suppliers into direct contact with India’s domestic textile clusters. This integration comes as regional hubs like Surat demonstrate a significant strategic shift; once known predominantly for polyester, the Surat Pavilion’s 50 stalls now highlight a move toward cotton and sustainable fabrics. By housing over 250 exhibitors across 2 lakh sq ft, the show facilitates localized sourcing for e-commerce players and export houses, aiming to streamline procurement cycles in an increasingly cost-sensitive market.
Technical disruption through AI and green manufacturing
The 2026 showcase highlights a clear investment in the ‘Future Factory’ concept, moving beyond basic material sourcing to incorporate Artificial Intelligence. Selected AI providers are demonstrating tools for design, inventory management, and retail optimization, addressing the industry's need for precision in production. This technological push is paired with a heavy emphasis on responsible production through the ‘Green Factories’ segment and a dedicated Sustainability Pavilion. These initiatives reflect CMAI’s broader mandate to align the Indian apparel ecosystem with global ESG standards, providing manufacturers with the certifications and eco-conscious materials necessary to compete in a climate-regulated international market.
Get in Touch! 
