Dominated by MSMEs, the Indian textile industry faces significant challenges in funding and access to technical expertise, according to a recent CRISIL Ratings report. These barriers hinder modernisation, affecting efficiency and global competitiveness. The fragmented structure of the sector limits diversification and awareness of labor rights, contributing to tough working conditions.

To address these gaps, government initiatives like the PM MITRA Parks scheme aim to provide advanced infrastructure and support for smaller businesses, addressing issues like inadequate logistics, e-commerce infrastructure, and consistent power supply.

Despite these hurdles, rising domestic demand, driven by a growing middle class, increased disposable incomes, and a trend toward athleisure and workwear, is expected to fuel growth. The Indian government targets $100 billion in textile exports by 2030 as against $44 billion in 2022. However, this goal depends on overcoming global competition, fluctuating cotton prices, and the absence of key trade agreements.

The report highlights, India is a dominant producer of cotton, which accounts for 23 per cent of global output. Yet, it lags in other areas like weaving and processing, where competitors like China excel. Although India has a 3 per cent share in the global ready-made garments market, it remains behind smaller rivals like Vietnam and Bangladesh due to better technology and lower costs.

Recent data indicates, India’s textile exports increased by 11.56 per cent Y-o-Y in Oct’24 to $1.83 billion while apparel exports rose by 35.06 per cent to $1.23 billion. The need for more Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) is critical, as competitors often benefit from duty-free access to key markets.

To meet evolving global demands, India must diversify from its cotton-centric production to synthetic and sustainable textiles, aligning with global shifts towards polyester. Expanding beyond cotton and investing in sustainable practices will be crucial for the Indian textile industry’s long-term success and competitiveness on the international stage.

The Lenzing Group, a leader in wood-based specialty fibers, highlighted its cutting-edge sustainable textile solutions at The Lenzing Conclave in Surat, hosted at Orange Megastructure LLP. The event gathered key stakeholders from the trade and greige fabric sectors, offering an exclusive platform to explore Lenzing’s innovative fibers for categories like Traditional Wear, Ethnic Wear, Fashion Knits, Intimate Wear, Fashion Wovens, and Denim.

Lenzing showcased its flagship products, Tencel A100, Tencel LF, and LenzingEcovero, emphasizing their superior softness, high lustre, and versatility. Tencel A100 stands out as a silk alternative, Tencel LF enhances cotton blends for durability, and LenzingEcovero promotes eco-friendly practices for diverse applications.

Avinash Mane, Senior Commercial Director for AMEA & NEA at Lenzing Group, stated, “The market demands fabrics that combine superior performance, lasting quality, and environmental responsibility. Through innovations like Tencel and LenzingEcover, we aim to provide comprehensive solutions, including fiber development, technical expertise, and supply chain optimization. Our focus is on fostering collaboration to set new sustainability standards.”

The conclave also spotlighted Lenzing’s holistic support for the textile industry, encompassing fiber and product innovation, technical assistance, marketing support, and supply chain solutions. Discussions at the event reinforced Lenzing’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, strengthening ties within the textile community.

Lenzing expressed gratitude to participants for their role in making the conclave a success and reaffirmed its dedication to driving sustainable advancements in textiles.

Kering has become the first company worldwide to adopt science-based targets for land and freshwater, marking a significant step in biodiversity protection. The announcement, made during COP16 on October 30, follows Kering’s year-long participation in the Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) corporate pilot. This achievement cements Kering's leadership in sustainability within the fashion industry and beyond.

The Group’s science-based targets encompass its direct operations, including Kering-owned tanneries, factories, and upstream suppliers. A key focus is the Arno basin in Tuscany, where most of Kering’s tanneries and supplier tanneries are situated. The basin represents a substantial portion of the Group’s water use, making it a critical area for the company's first freshwater quantity target.

Kering’s land-related targets aim to halt natural ecosystem conversion, reduce its land footprint, and drive engagement in relevant landscape initiatives. These actions align with the Group’s long-standing commitment to biodiversity and sustainable practices.

The adoption of these science-based targets underscores Kering’s strategic approach to addressing environmental impacts and promoting global biodiversity restoration. By leading this initiative, Kering sets a benchmark for the fashion industry and encourages cross-sector participation in sustainable development goals.

British actor Callum Turner has been appointed as the newest brand ambassador by brand Louis Vuitton.

Known for his roles in diverse projects including the historical drama ‘The Capture,’ the coming-of-age film,’Queen and Country and romantic comedy ‘Emma,’ Turner is particularly famous for his portrayal of Theseus Scamander in ‘Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.’ His penchant for perfection alongwith the diversity of roles played by him align perfectly with Louis Vuitton’s dedication to exceptional craftsmanship and constant quest for innovation, says the brand. It released several photographic images and a video with Turner carrying a Speedy P9 by Pharrell Williams to cement this partnership.

Turner joins several other individuals including football star Jude Bellingham, Korean music superstar, Lisa, and rapper Pusha T, who were all named as ambassadors by the French luxury brand earlier this year.