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Surat Textile Industry Eyes Export Boom as Bangladesh Mills Go on Strike

The indefinite strike by Bangladesh's textile mills, protesting duty-free imports of low-cost Indian yarn, is creating potential export opportunities for Surat's textile industry. Industry leaders believe the disruption could shift international garment sourcing toward India, highlighting the superior quality of Indian yarn. Surat, which produces 65% of India's polyester fabric, is investing in skill development, infrastructure, and textile parks to strengthen its global position. The industry is urging the government to establish an R&D centre in Surat to further support innovation and advanced garmenting techniques.

Key Points: Bangladesh Textile Strike Opens Export Doors for Surat Industry

  • Bangladesh mills strike over cheap Indian yarn imports
  • Surat sees opportunity to boost global garment exports
  • Indian yarn quality cited as competitive advantage
  • Investment in skill and infrastructure to build global brand
2 min read

Surat textile industry sees opportunity as Bangladesh mills announce indefinite strike

Surat textile traders anticipate a major export boost as Bangladesh mills begin an indefinite strike, potentially shifting global garment sourcing to India.

"When there is uncertainty in Bangladesh, it opens doors for India. This situation proves the superior quality of Indian yarn. - Kailash Hakim"

Surat, Jan 29

Textile traders in Gujarat's Surat are expecting a major boost to business following the announcement of an indefinite strike by Bangladesh's textile mills beginning from February 1 this year.

The strike has been called by the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA) in protest against the duty-free import of low-cost yarn from India, which has severely affected Bangladesh's domestic textile industry.

According to industry sources, the influx of cheaper Indian yarn has made it difficult for Bangladeshi mill owners to sustain operations and repay bank loans, pushing the sector toward a shutdown.

The resulting disruption is being viewed by Surat's textile industry as an opportunity to strengthen India's position in global garment manufacturing and exports.

Kailash Hakim, Surat Federation of Textile and Trade Associations President, said the current uncertainty in Bangladesh, coupled with political instability, could benefit Indian textile exporters.

"When there is uncertainty in Bangladesh, it opens doors for India. This situation proves the superior quality of Indian yarn. The future belongs to India's textile and garment industry," Hakim added.

He said that Bangladesh relies heavily on imported fabric and has limited local textile manufacturing capacity, focusing primarily on garmenting.

With production in Bangladesh likely to be affected, international buyers may increasingly turn to India for sourcing.

Hakim added that both the government and industry stakeholders are investing in skill development and infrastructure to establish Indian textiles as a global brand.

Several textile and garment parks are being developed across the country, with Surat emerging as a key hub.

While Bangladesh has traditionally held an advantage due to low-cost labour and skilled garment workers, Surat is closing the gap through cluster-based development and quality enhancement initiatives.

The industry is also focusing on parts manufacturing, quality improvement, and export growth.

Textile traders have urged the Indian government to set up a Research and Development centre in Surat to support innovation and advanced garmenting techniques.

Surat accounts for nearly 65 per cent of India's polyester fabric production, reinforcing its strategic importance in the textile value chain.

Local traders remain hopeful that the disruption in Bangladesh's textile sector will translate into increased export opportunities for Surat-based manufacturers.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While it's good for business, we must also think about the workers in Bangladesh. Their mills closing affects thousands of families. Hope our industry leaders use this chance ethically and focus on sustainable growth, not just short-term profit.
R
Rohit P
Surat's polyester is world-class! This proves that quality always wins. Bangladesh relied on cheap labour, but our technical textiles and yarn quality are superior. Let's invest in branding now. #VocalForLocal
S
Sarah B
Interesting dynamic. From a global sourcing perspective, diversification is key. Buyers won't want all eggs in one basket. If India can ensure consistent supply and meet compliance standards, this could be a major shift in the apparel supply chain.
K
Karthik V
The demand for a R&D centre in Surat is spot on. We need to move beyond being just a production hub to becoming an innovation hub. Fast fashion is changing; we need tech for sustainable and smart textiles.
M
Michael C
A respectful criticism: The article and the industry president sound overly optimistic. Seizing this opportunity requires more than hope. It needs strategic planning, skilled workforce development, and competitive pricing. Let's see if the execution matches the enthusiasm.
N
Nisha Z
My brother works in a Surat textile unit. They are already discussing

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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