AEPC’s Bharat Tex Roadshow in London strengthens India-UK textile ties
30 November 2024, Mumbai
The Bharat Tex Roadshow, organized by the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), was successfully held in London from November 27-29, 2024, marking a pivotal step in promoting the upcoming Bharat Tex 2025 event internationally. Attended by over 100 industry leaders, including representatives from top brands, retail chains, and research bodies, the event underscored India’s textile prowess and its growing partnership with the UK.
Prominent figures at the event included Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman of AEPC; Premal Udani, Chairman of AEPC’s Export Promotion Committee; and Shubhra, Trade Advisor from India’s Ministry of Textiles. Shubhra highlighted transformative government initiatives like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme and PM MITRA Parks, emphasizing their potential to make India’s textile sector globally competitive. She also stressed the alignment between India’s focus on sustainability and the UK’s commitment to responsible sourcing and circular fashion.
AEPC Chairman Sudhir Sekhri expressed optimism about strengthening India-UK textile trade, noting the UK’s status as the sixth-largest global apparel importer. He highlighted India’s growing market share, with exports to the UK reaching US $1.2 billion in 2023 and registering a 9.4 per cent increase in ready-made garment (RMG) exports from April to October 2024.
The roadshow featured discussions on fostering partnerships, joint ventures, and trade agreements, with a special focus on sustainability and innovation. The delegation also met with Vikram Doraiswamy, India’s High Commissioner to the UK, who assured full support for Bharat Tex 2025.
Bharat Tex 2025 will take place at two venues: Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi (February 14-17, 2025) and the India Expo Centre & Mart in Greater Noida (February 12-15, 2025). The event will showcase India’s entire textile value chain, with a special focus on handicrafts, apparel machinery, chemicals, and dyes. Iconic UK brands like Marks & Spencer, Primark, and Burberry are expected to participate, reflecting the event’s focus on sustainability, innovation, and quality craftsmanship.