Indian textile manufacturers hope to be at par with Europe in terms of quality in 10 years’ time. The ‘Make in India’ initiative is the start of a long term plan to improve the quality of Indian textiles by acquiring knowledge and technologies and skills from other countries. In return, the plan hopes to offer businesses the convenience of a single entry point for the entire market, customised working environments for individual businesses and a huge market.

India has a population of 1.2 billion people, so it’s a huge market for Europe. India can offer European businesses improved infrastructure, policies, strategies and connectivity, as well as an environment conducive to their interests. The quality of textiles produced in India at the moment is not quite up to European standards, but production is between 10 per cent and 20 per cent cheaper.

There are a lot of Indian companies at this year’s ITMA because they are all pushing for more joint ventures with other countries. They are intent on building up their business overseas. The plan is to improve the country’s brand name little by little while striving to keep costs down, so that in 10 years Indian manufacturers will be able to compete with Europe in terms of quality and cost.