Indian Textile Sector Braces for December Turnaround Amid US Tariff Challenges
The Textile Association of India (TAI) has expressed confidence that the current crisis triggered by recent US tariff increases, which has particularly impacted the apparel segment, will likely be resolved by December this year. This optimistic outlook comes from senior TAI representatives as the industry prepares for a major conference in Coimbatore.
Apparel Sector Bears the Brunt of International Trade Pressures
According to K Ramalingam, convenor of the upcoming 78th All India Textile Conference, the apparel industry remains particularly vulnerable due to its capital-intensive, power-dependent, and labor-heavy nature. He highlighted that domestic raw material prices currently exceed international costs, creating additional pressure on exporters.
Approximately 30% of India's textile exports are destined for the United States market, making the tariff situation particularly critical. Ramalingam clarified that while not all textile segments have been equally affected, specific categories like bed linen have faced significant consequences from the trade policy changes.
Major Textile Conference to Focus on Global Opportunities
The textile industry is gearing up for the 78th All India Textile Conference, scheduled for November 21 and 22 in Coimbatore. The event, organized by TAI, will explore the theme 'Global Textiles: Unearthing Opportunities' and is expected to attract around 600 delegates from across the country.
During the conference, industrial excellence awards will be presented to two prominent industry leaders: Durai Palanisamy, executive director of Pallavaa Group, and L S Manivannan, chairman and managing director of LS Mills Ltd based in Theni.
Renewable Energy Emerges as Strategic Response to Power Costs
Addressing another significant challenge facing the industry, TAI Coimbatore unit secretary Sivakumar discussed how textile manufacturers are responding to power tariff hikes in Tamil Nadu. He revealed that most industry players are increasingly becoming self-reliant by transitioning to renewable energy sources.
Many textile units currently meet a substantial portion of their power requirements through solar or wind energy installations. With the emergence of hybrid renewable energy models, companies are actively exploring additional ways to enhance their energy independence and reduce operational costs in the long term.
The industry's dual approach of navigating international trade challenges while investing in sustainable energy solutions demonstrates the textile sector's resilience and adaptability in facing contemporary business obstacles.
