India’s growing demand opens new opportunities for New Zealand strong wool

India’s rising demand for natural fibres is creating major opportunities for New Zealand’s strong wool sector, says Wool Impact chief executive Andy Caughey. Fresh from the Bharat Tex 2025 exhibition in New Delhi, he emphasized the need for market expansion before establishing a long-term industry framework.

Caughey emphasized the exciting potential of New Zealand strong wool, highlighting the global shift towards healthier living spaces and the need to position wool as the preferred natural choice.

India imported $60 million worth of NZ strong wool in 2024, surpassing China as the top buyer, with 20,000 kilograms used to carpet India’s new Parliament building. India’s textile sector, accounting for 8.21 per cent of its total exports, aims to triple its sales to NZD$180 billion by 2030.

Wool Impact used Bharat Tex to connect NZ wool businesses with Indian buyers, reinforcing messages of quality, sustainability, and transparency. A follow-up visit by Indian wool buyers to NZ is planned. Domestically, Kainga Ora’s decision to re-open its carpet tender process for wool is seen as a positive step. Caughey highlighted ongoing efforts to create a sustainable industry framework, working alongside Campaign for Wool NZ to drive long-term growth.