The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) has launched a project to evaluate the existing status of the Indian garment industry, encourage wider reach of beneficial measures among medium and small units, hand hold units with demonstrations and solutions, enhance the brand visibility of sustainable companies on a global platform, and brainstorm the necessary policy focus.

Global garment production is forecasted to increase by 63 per cent by 2030. This will bring with it an ever-growing global concern on the detrimental impact that the fashion industry brings. Further, with growing consumer awareness on sustainability and the gaps in global markets, there is a need for the Indian apparel industry to take steps for sustainability.

The industry has to face severe competition from Bangladesh and Vietnam and the emerging economies of Cambodia, Myanmar and even Africa. But these are also the times for innovating in design, structuring, promotions and supply chain efficiencies.

The global garment export industry is changing and in order to remain competitive the Indian garment Industry will have to develop capabilities to tackle both larger volume orders and manage rapid turnarounds with short lead times for diverse fashion garments. The industry will have to develop capabilities to offer better value propositions to buyers in terms of designs and products that align with their market needs.