CMAI's FAB Show 2025 sparks business momentum and global collaboration
The 5th edition of the Fabrics, Accessories & Beyond (FAB) Show 2025, organised by the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI), concluded on a high note at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, from April 21 to 23. Supported by the Government of Maharashtra, The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SGCCI), and 15 prominent industry associations, the event marked a major milestone for India’s textile and apparel sector.
Record participation and international presence
The show hosted over 250 exhibitors and welcomed around 12,000 trade visitors from more than 350 Indian cities, including 1,750 platinum dealers. It also attracted 90 overseas buyers from 23 countries, including the US, Bangladesh, Egypt, UAE, Russia, Portugal, and Nepal. “The FAB Show is not just about business it’s about transformation,” said CMAI President Santosh Katariya. “The response reaffirms our role in driving innovation, sustainability, and collaboration in the industry.”
Highlighting the global trade shift, Rahul Mehta, Chief Mentor, CMAI, added, “With recent US tariffs on key sourcing nations, India is uniquely positioned to become a global hub. FAB 2025 came at the perfect time to showcase our end-to-end capabilities.”
Sustainability leads the agenda
Sustainability remained the core theme throughout the event. A dedicated pavilion showcased eco-conscious innovations from over 20 vendors, while a fashion show highlighted collections crafted using environmentally responsible materials and methods. “Sustainability wasn’t just a theme it defined the entire experience this year,” said FAB Show Chairman Naveen Sainani. “From pavilions to knowledge sessions, the event was curated to inspire responsible manufacturing and industry-wide change.”
Exhibitors reflect on market trends and show success
Participants across India shared positive feedback. Dhaval Desai, Vice President, Ichalkaranji Shuttleless Fabrics Manufacturers Association (ISFMA), said, “This was a rewarding experience with great footfall and a strong business focus.” Sunny Jain of Girnar Fabrics noted, “Buyers are demanding shorter lead times and integrated capabilities. FAB was the perfect platform to showcase that.”
Divesh Gulecha from Manidari Silk Mills, a first-time participant, said, “We saw a strong shift toward placement digital prints and embroideries FAB helped us connect with the right buyers.” Lakshman Shinde of Jindal Textiles added, “The focus is clearly on sustainable, innovative fabric concepts. We’re aligning our offerings with global trends.”
Chhattisgarh pushes investment agenda, knowledge sessions enrich insights
A highlight of the show was the MoU signing between CMAI and the Government of Chhattisgarh, with Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai attending as Chief Guest. As a State Partner, Chhattisgarh showcased its textile manufacturers and MSME-friendly policies under the “Business Made Easy” initiative. The show also featured a series of insightful knowledge sessions covering key themes such as sustainability, certification, AI, and business recalibration. Expert-led panels and talks including sessions by Ragini Verma, Mayur Suchak, and Vishal Trivedi offered strategic guidance to navigate the changing textile landscape.
The 5th edition of FAB Show reaffirmed CMAI’s vision to make India a leader in sustainable, tech-driven apparel manufacturing while supporting policy initiatives, global sourcing shifts, and the spirit of innovation.
