The 11th edition of Gartex Texprocess India, a premier trade event for the textile and garment industry, was successfully held from August 1st to 3rd, 2024, at the Yashobhoomi India International Convention and Expo Centre (IICC) in Dwarka, New Delhi. Organized by Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt Ltd  and MEX Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd, the event brought together key industry players, showcasing cutting-edge innovations, sustainable practices, and comprehensive solutions for the textile and garment manufacturing sectors.

A Diverse Exhibition with a Focus on Key Industry Segments

This year’s edition of Gartex Texprocess India featured over 200 exhibitors, representing more than 600 brands across three main segments: Denim, Machinery, and Fabrics & Trims, including Screen Printing. The new venue at Yashobhoomi provided an enhanced experience for both exhibitors and visitors, contributing to the event's success. According to Raj Manek, Executive Director and Board Member of Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd, the quality of visitors has significantly improved, with a more focused and targeted audience attending the show.

Driving Innovation and Sustainability in the Textile Industry

One of the key themes at Gartex Texprocess India 2024 was the emphasis on sustainability, particularly in the denim sector. Many exhibitors highlighted their transition towards more sustainable manufacturing processes, reflecting a broader industry trend. Notably, a Korean company showcased textiles produced from corn, underscoring the global shift towards eco-friendly innovations. This company, which has invested in manufacturing facilities in India, exemplifies the growing trend of foreign investment in the country’s textile sector.

In addition, companies in the printing segment introduced eco-friendly inks, while Tenth Fiber, a pioneering firm, displayed t-shirts made entirely from recycled fibers. These innovations reflect the Indian textile industry’s commitment to sustainability, technology upgrades, and research and development, positioning India as a leader in global textile production.

The Role of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Government Support

Raj Manek emphasized the crucial role of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the growth of the Indian textile industry. He highlighted the proactive stance of Textile Minister Giriraj Singh, who has been advocating for joint ventures and international investments, particularly from countries like Germany and Korea. The development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) by the Indian government is seen as a key factor in attracting global investors, further strengthening India’s position in the textile sector.

Manek also pointed out that while Indian companies are increasingly capable of producing high-quality textiles, there is a pressing need to enhance the supply chain infrastructure to efficiently move products to market. He sees this as a critical opportunity for growth, with India having the potential to become a global leader in textile manufacturing.

Changing Market Dynamics and Future Prospects

The Indian textile market has undergone significant changes over the past decade, with consumers now more willing to pay for quality products. This shift has been facilitated by government policies that enforce higher standards for domestic production. The upcoming editions of Gartex Texprocess India in Mumbai (May 2025) and Bharat Tex (February 2025) are expected to attract even greater participation, with a focus on showcasing India’s advancements in textile production and sourcing.

Manek expressed optimism about India’s growing role on the global stage, noting the increasing demand for Indian textiles post-COVID. He believes that India is well-positioned to capitalize on these opportunities, potentially becoming a leading global textile exporter.

A Platform for the Complete Value Chain

Himani Gulati, Director of MEX Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd, outlined the core purpose of Gartex Texprocess India: to create a platform that caters to the entire value chain of garment manufacturing. The exhibition offers solutions for both established players seeking new innovations and new entrants looking to source all types of solutions under one roof.

The show featured a wide range of offerings, from embroidery and digital printing to laundry machine solutions, as well as a diverse array of fabrics, trims, and accessories. With strong international participation, the event highlighted the immense growth potential in India’s textile sector.

Strategic Focus and Future Vision

Gulati emphasized the strategic importance of Delhi as a hub for machinery and industrial innovation, while the upcoming Mumbai edition will focus more on trends, reflecting the city’s status as India’s financial capital. She also highlighted the practical, hands-on experience that the show offers to buyers, with key highlights including knowledge sessions and trend zones.

The choice of Yashobhoomi as the venue for this year’s edition was praised by exhibitors, who reported high satisfaction with the footfall and overall experience. The venue’s state-of-the-art facilities contributed to the success of the event, making it a preferred choice for future editions.

As Gartex Texprocess India 2024 concludes, it is clear that the event continues to be a vital platform for innovation, collaboration, and growth within the textile and garment industry. With a strong focus on sustainability and technological advancement, the show is poised to shape the future of the industry in India and beyond.

Closing Thoughts

Gartex Texprocess India 2024 successfully demonstrated the dynamic evolution of the textile and garment industry, with a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and global collaboration. The event highlighted the Indian textile sector’s commitment to embracing eco-friendly practices and advancing technology. With significant foreign direct investment and government support, India is poised to strengthen its position as a global leader in textile manufacturing. As the industry continues to evolve, future editions in Mumbai and Bharat Tex will further showcase India’s growing influence and advancements in this vital sector.