Union Minister Giriraj Singh Sets Ambitious Rs 75,000 Crore Export Goal for Noida Garment Sector
In a significant push to bolster India's textile and apparel industry, Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh has called upon garment exporters in Gautam Budh Nagar, Noida, to strive for a substantial increase in annual apparel exports. Speaking at an export award ceremony organized by the Noida Apparel Export Cluster (NAEC) on Monday, Singh outlined a clear target: raising exports to Rs 75,000 crore by the year 2030.
Government Backing and Strategic Growth Plans
Minister Singh emphasized the need for strategic planning, urging the industry to "plan for at least 30% growth" from the current export level of approximately Rs 55,000 crore. "We must move with a clear target. Noida's apparel exports can reach Rs 75,000 crore," he asserted, highlighting the Centre's proactive steps to support this ambitious goal.
The minister announced that the government is taking concrete measures to strengthen raw material availability, which is crucial for the textile and garment industry. Specifically, production of six key types of fibres—cotton, jute, silk, wool, coir, and synthetic fibres (polyester/viscose)—will soon be scaled up across the country to ensure a better and more reliable supply chain.
Expanding Global Market Access Through Trade Agreements
In addition to boosting domestic production, Singh pointed to India's expanding network of free trade agreements as a major opportunity for exporters. He revealed that India has recently signed free trade agreements with 22 countries, bringing the total to 56 nations with such pacts in place. This development opens up new and lucrative export markets, providing Noida's apparel sector with enhanced global access and competitive advantages.
Recognizing Resilience and Women's Role in the Industry
During the ceremony, the minister also acknowledged the significant contributions of women in the garment sector, noting that their participation has been vital and "should increase further to strengthen the industry’s base." This emphasis on gender inclusion aligns with broader efforts to build a more robust and diverse workforce.
Later in the event, exporters who excelled in various garment categories were honored with awards and recognition, celebrating their achievements and encouraging continued excellence.
Industry Leaders Highlight Challenges and Confidence in Achieving Targets
NAEC president Lalit Thukral addressed the gathering, shedding light on the global challenges faced by Noida exporters. Despite obstacles such as US tariffs, the Russia-Ukraine war, tensions in West Asia, and shifting US trade policies, Thukral noted that Noida's apparel exporters have demonstrated remarkable resilience. "Geopolitical instability has disrupted supply chains, increased freight costs, and created uncertainty in key markets. Tariff measures and changing trade regimes have put pressure on margins," he explained.
However, Thukral expressed confidence in the industry's ability to overcome these hurdles, citing strategies like diversifying markets, strengthening compliance, and focusing on value-added products. He added that the industry is actively exploring emerging markets in Europe, Australia, the Middle East, and Latin America. With continued government support, Thukral believes the ambitious Rs 75,000 crore export target is not only achievable but also a testament to the sector's adaptability and growth potential.
This initiative marks a pivotal moment for Noida's apparel export cluster, positioning it as a key player in India's economic landscape and reinforcing the government's commitment to fostering industrial growth and international trade.
