Increase in international demand revives Tiruppur’s garment and yarn sectors

The rise in international demand over recent months has revitalized garment production and investment in Tiruppur, leading to a boost in yarn demand from local textile mills. KM Subramanian, President, Tiruppur Exporters Association, stated retail buyers sourcing garments from Bangladesh are now looking into Tiruppur as a potential supplier, with audits already underway in some units. As a result, garment units in Tiruppur, which account for 90 per cent of the region’s capacity, are operating at full capacity.

However, the aging machinery in many units is being replaced by new, AI-powered machines to enhance efficiency. A garment exporter noted that retailers now demand higher capacities, prompting manufacturers to scale up operations to at least 150 machines to secure major orders.

Spinning mills, particularly smaller ones, are also benefiting from the revived demand for yarn after a slump in recent years. Around 40 per cent of small mills were hit by the downturn, but most are now operating at full capacity.

The Southern India Mills Association emphasized that stable cotton prices are supporting the industry, but the weaving sector still faces challenges with slow orders and delayed payments from Bangladesh. Calls for the removal of import duties on cotton and regulatory relaxations have been made to capitalize on international opportunities.