With the government pumping in investments worth over $1 billion in the last five years, the market for sewing machines in India has been expanding for the last few years. As per a Fortune Business Insights report, the market is estimated to reach $50.8 million in 2021 from $47million in 2020. The rise is on account of a growing demand for fabrics by industrial and domestic end-users. Growth will be driven by investments worth $1 billion made by the government in the last six years in initiatives such as the TechnologyUpgradation Fund Scheme and the Integrated Textile Parks.
For instance, in October 2021, the Centre announced the setting up of seven mega textile parks to generate over one lakh direct and over two lakh indirect jobs. As per India Brand Equity Foundation Report, India invested approximately $185 million in the Integrated Textile Parks and roughly $961 million in the Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme between FY 2015-16 and FY 2019-20. These investments boosted the installation of sewing machines across applications, says a Deccan Herald report.
Textile parks to boost sector growth
The setting up of seven mega textile parks will boost growth in the sector, opines an apparel exporter registered with the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI). A listed player in the sector, Singer India has recovered from the second pandemic wave. For the current fiscal’s half-year, the company recorded a cumulative net profit of Rs 2.67 crore. Its management has launched several initiatives to accelerate growth both in sewing machines and home appliances business, informs Rajeev Bajaj, Managing Director.
Usha International is introducing new technologies like white machines. The company is developing innovative sewing machines to cater to changing demands. It recently introduced a few modes iPad and WiFi enabled models equipped with user-friendly embroidery designing software, adds Parveen Kumarr Sahni, President-Sewing Machines Business, Usha International.
Innovations driving market
Integrating internet of things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI) and 3D printing, several new innovations like pedal-less machines, voice guide machines, automatic zigzag machines and machines with USB ports are being introduced to drive up growth. One such innovation that has grabbed the attention of customers is the automatic zigzag machines being offered by Usha International, Singer India and Brother. Known for their accuracy, speed and flexibility, these sewing machines are witnessing an increased demand from customers.
Challenges for the sector
However, despite its current growth rate, the sector is witnessing certain challenges like the closure of manufacturing facilities, disrupted supply chains and reduction in demand of apparels due to the pandemic. One of the biggest challenges is that lack of manufacturing of industrial grade sewing machines in India. This makes India entirely dependent upon China for machines, says Inderjit Singh, President, Sewing Machine Dealers & Assemblers Association, an umbrella organization of over 300 industry players.
Singh points out, the government needs to incentivize innovations as MSMEs do not have the wherewithal to spend on R&D. He hopes, the ongoing market conditions will help boost sales leading to a strong growth of the sewing machine market in India.
