Man Made Fibre to Help India Reach USD 100 Billion Textile Export Target by 2030: MoS Pabitra Margherita
Coimbatore/Tiruppur – The Indian textile industry is preparing for a major transformation. The Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Mr. Pabitra Margherita, recently stated that man-made fibre (MMF) will play a very important role in helping India reach its target of USD 100 billion in textile and apparel exports by the year 2030.
The Minister made this statement while speaking at the 3rd Man-Made Fibre (MMF) Conclave, held in Coimbatore and organised by the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI). The theme of the event was ‘Global Trade Dynamics: Strengthening India’s Position in the Manmade Fibre Value Chain’.
India’s Growing Strength in MMF
During his inaugural address, Mr. Margherita said that the world’s demand is shifting from natural fibres like cotton to man-made fibres such as polyester, viscose, and nylon. These materials are more durable, versatile, and easier to produce in large quantities. As a result, many global markets now prefer MMF-based clothing and textiles.
“India must grab this opportunity to become a global leader in the man-made fibre sector,” he said.
To achieve this, the Indian government is taking various steps. Mr. Margherita mentioned two major initiatives that will act as game changers:
- PM-MITRA Parks: These are Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel Parks being set up across India. They will provide world-class infrastructure to textile units under one roof.
- PLI Scheme: The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme will provide financial support and encourage companies to invest more in MMF and technical textiles.
Importance of Tiruppur in Indian Apparel Sector
After attending the conclave, Mr. Margherita visited Tiruppur, one of India’s biggest garment hubs. He praised the city by saying, “Tiruppur is the centre of everything in the apparel sector.”
He interacted with local exporters and businessmen, who shared their views and gave suggestions to improve the sector. The Minister promised that he would discuss their ideas with officials in the ministry and try to take necessary actions.
Tiruppur is famous for exporting knitted garments like T-shirts, innerwear, sportswear, and more. It is known for its skilled workforce, efficient production, and strong international connections.
Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) for Better Market Access
Mr. Margherita also informed that the Government of India is actively working on signing Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with important markets like the United States (US) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
“These FTAs will help remove trade barriers and give easier access for Indian apparel and textiles in these high-demand markets,” he explained. He added that India has favourable conditions, such as a large workforce, raw materials, and growing industry – which can help meet international demand.
Visit to SVPISTM, Coimbatore
After his visit to Tiruppur, the Minister went to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International School of Textiles and Management (SVPISTM) in Coimbatore. This institute is under the Ministry of Textiles and works on providing professional education in the textile sector.
During his speech at SVPISTM, he shared some interesting facts:
- Textiles contribute 13% of India’s total industrial production.
- The sector is the second-largest employment provider after agriculture, which shows how important it is for the Indian economy.
He encouraged students and faculty at the institute to continue working towards innovation and leadership in textiles.
Why Man-Made Fibre is the Future
In the past, India has focused more on natural fibres like cotton and jute. While cotton is still very important, the global demand is quickly increasing for synthetic and blended fibres because:
- MMF is cheaper and more consistent in quality.
- It is better suited for sportswear, technical textiles, and industrial use.
- MMF clothing is easy to wash, dry, and maintain.
Countries like China, Vietnam, and Indonesia have already made big progress in MMF. Now, India is catching up fast with support from government schemes and industry growth.
Government’s Vision for 2030
The Indian government’s goal is to increase textile and apparel exports to USD 100 billion by 2030. Currently, India exports around USD 40–45 billion worth of textiles every year. To meet this ambitious target, India must:
- Modernize factories and adopt advanced technologies.
- Invest in research and innovation, especially in MMF and technical textiles.
- Improve skill development among workers and professionals.
- Encourage sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
- Sign favourable FTAs with global trade partners.
The PM-MITRA Parks, PLI scheme, FTA negotiations, and focus on MMF are all part of this strategy.
