The Indian garment and textile industry has been witnessing a significant decline in exports over the past decade. Exports fell by more than 7 per cent which is quite alarming considering the fact that neighbouring countries like China, Bangladesh, and Vietnam have continued to strengthen their foothold in the global market leaving India behind.

One of the main issues, which I feel, that led to this slump is the high import duties on essential raw materials and components needed for garment production, making Indian exports less competitive on the global stage.  

Another problem which everyone will agree with me is the urgent need to address the rising percentage of garment imports in India. This clearly indicates that our industry is failing to meet the domestic demand, further widening the trade deficit. As India imports more garments, its ability to export decreases, limiting its competitiveness globally. This trend must be curbed if India aims to boost its exports.

The government should lower import duties on key raw materials required for garment and textile manufacturing, provide advanced machinery and automation solutions to these SMEs that can significantly improve productivity, efficiency, and quality, and introduce special incentive schemes for companies involved in garment exports. This can include tax breaks, subsidies for modernization, or financial support for entering new international markets. There is also a need to look beyond traditional fabrics as the global market is increasingly leaning towards synthetic fabrics, which are both cost-effective and in high demand in developed countries. 

The future of this sector depends on swift, strategic action, and the time to act is now and I have no doubt that our government is looking into the issues that plague the sector.

I invite your opinions.