Surat eyes global leadership in sustainable home textiles

City focuses on MMF strength and policy support to boost exports.

Surat is reinforcing its presence in the global textile landscape, with industry leaders emphasising the city’s potential in sustainable home fabrics. At a session hosted by the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) under Textile Parv 2.0, experts discussed how Surat’s strengths in man-made fibres, technology adoption, and skill development can help the city cater to rising international demand for eco-friendly home textiles. The session aligned with India’s Textile Policy 2024, which places strong focus on sustainability and advanced manufacturing.

Held at Samruddhi in Nanpura, the event featured S.P. Verma, former Additional Textile Commissioner of India and now consultant to the Chamber’s Center of Excellence, as the keynote speaker. Verma provided insights into India’s evolving textile policy and global market shifts, noting that Surat holds a pivotal position in the MMF segment. “Surat has the expertise and infrastructure to scale production of home textiles, including upholstery, curtains, and technical fabrics for modern interiors,” he said. He highlighted that growing global demand for synthetic and blended fabrics offers new opportunities for the city’s expanding home textile ecosystem.

The upcoming 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad was also identified as a potential driver of large-scale domestic and export growth, encouraging manufacturers to strengthen their capabilities ahead of global exposure.

Industry experts addressed challenges such as environmental impact, workforce skill enhancement, and competition from other textile hubs. Verma recommended setting up a dedicated textile machinery park in Surat to improve efficiency and competitiveness. He also pointed to incentives under the revised Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme that could fast-track investments in advanced machinery and sustainable processes, enabling manufacturers to produce environmentally conscious home textiles.

The session concluded with a moderated discussion led by the GFRRC Co-Chairman, reinforcing Surat’s growing influence in the global textile value chain. With strategic policy support, technology investment, and a clear push for sustainability, Surat is positioned to emerge as a leading supplier of high-quality, eco-friendly home fabrics.

News source: Urban Acres