The Hindu Business Line : European textile companies keen on sourcing from India

Chennai, Nov. 10 European textile and textile machinery manufacturing companies are interested in sourcing garments from India, said Mr Dayanidhi Maran, Union Minister for Handloom and Textiles.

Addressing the inaugural of Silk Fab 2009, a national level exhibition and sale of handloom silk products, the Minister said that during his recent visit to Europe over 45 companies had expressed interest in sourcing garments from India. Textile companies were keen to set up base in India due to the cheap labour available here .

Textile exports

The textile exports have fallen by 7.3 per cent during the first half year of 2009-10, but during the last two months the exports have stabilised. Although exports have shown a decline, domestic demand has been robust and has been driving growth, he said.

On cotton production, Mr Maran said that although concerns are raised by textile industry the consumption will not exceed production. It is estimated that 300 lakh bales of cotton would be produced during this year. Last year, 280 lakh bales of cotton were produced and 220 lakh bales of cotton consumed.

In 2008-09, ten national level exhibition and sale of exclusive handloom silk products were held across the country which generated revenue of Rs 34 crore. This year, we will earn more from such exhibitions. The five exhibitions held so far have contributed Rs 20 crore , he said.

Handloom sector

Mr Maran said unless the domestic demand for handloom grows, the plight of the artisans will be tough to improve. To enhance the development of handloom sector, the National Handloom Development Corporation bears the marketing expenses of these exhibitions. Silk Fab 2009, which is open up to November 23, showcases handloom silk products and garments from over 15 States.

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