Surat’s fabric tycoons are celebrating a rare stroke of fortune courtesy of Bangladesh’s impending textile meltdown. With BTMA calling for mills to halt operations indefinitely from February 1, the culprit is clear: India’s competitively priced, duty-free yarn overwhelming local competitors and sparking widespread financial distress.
As India’s polyester fabric epicenter at 65% production share, Surat is primed to swoop in. Kailash Hakim, federation president, views Bangladesh’s volatility as a catalyst for Surat’s ascent. ‘Our yarn’s quality shines through; garmenting was always on Indian cloth there,’ he asserted.
India’s strategic investments in skills, infrastructure, and parks are bearing fruit. Surat prioritizes quality upgrades and export pacts, with demands for a dedicated R&D facility to sharpen its edge. Hakim stressed collaborative government efforts for a powerhouse brand.
Akshay Rathod, a key trader, called it a ‘blissful era’ for Surat’s dominant trade position. He attributed gains to Bangladesh’s policy blunders and highlighted burgeoning skill programs among youth. Full backing could transform Surat into an unrivaled international hub.
This episode marks textiles’ new era: innovation over cheap hands. Surat’s ready to seize the moment and soar.