India's Textile Ministry revamps testing infrastructure to safeguard export reputation

In a move to strengthen India's position in the global textile market, the Ministry of Textiles has announced a significant upgrade of the country's textile testing infrastructure. This initiative comes amid rising concerns about sub-standard textile exports, particularly involving pashmina shawls and silk products, which have reportedly tarnished India's image as a reliable supplier.

As per a 2023 report by the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), sub-standard textile exports from India have resulted in a rise in anti-dumping investigations by foreign countries. The report highlights several instances where Indian textile products, including polyester yarn and fabrics, were found to be of inferior quality compared to what was declared. This not only leads to financial losses for Indian exporters but also undermines the credibility of the entire Indian textile industry.

To address these concerns, the ministry plans to establish state-of-the-art testing laboratories across the country. Existing facilities will also undergo a comprehensive modernization process. This upgraded infrastructure will enable stringent testing and validation of textile products, including pashmina, silk, cotton, and coarse wool items, before they are shipped overseas.

The revamped testing regime is expected to deliver several key benefits. Among them are curbing sub-standard exports as rigorous testing will ensure that only high-quality textiles leave Indian shores, effectively eliminating the export of sub-standard products. By guaranteeing product quality, India can rebuild its reputation as a trusted supplier in the international textile market. Stringent quality control measures will instill greater confidence among global buyers, leading to increased demand for Indian textiles. Also, upholding high quality standards will strengthen the overall brand image of Indian textiles, making them more competitive in the global marketplace.

The textile industry has welcomed the government's initiative. The Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) has stated this move will significantly enhance the competitiveness of Indian textiles in the global arena. Experts believe that the upgraded testing infrastructure will not only improve export prospects but will also encourage domestic textile manufacturers to prioritize quality throughout the production process.