SIMA Unveils Plans to Bolster Textile Industry
In a press conference, the Southern India Mills’ Association (SIMA) announced it’s commitment to address the critical challenges plaguing the Indian textiles and clothing industry. The new office-bearers, including Chairman Dr SK Sundararaman, Deputy Chairman Durai Palaniswamy and Vice-Chairman S Krishnakumar, outlined their strategic vision to enhance global competitiveness.
The Indian textiles and clothing sector, a vital contributor to employment and revenue has grappled with hurdles such as raw material shortages, tariff barriers, high production costs and logistical challenges. Despite the government’s efforts, policy shortcomings and delays in strengthening the raw material base have hindered sustainable growth.
Dr Sundararaman acknowledged Prime Minister Modi’s initiatives, particularly the removal of anti-dumping duties on key raw materials like polyester staple fibre and viscose staple fibre. However, he also highlighted disruptions caused by new quality control orders and the need to exempt imported materials under the advance authorisation scheme. Furthermore, he urged the government to launch a technology mission on cotton 2.0 and advocated for the adoption of global best practices and modern seed technology, ultimately tripling farmer’s incomes and making India a prominent player in cotton textiles.
On the issue of cotton imports, Dr Sundararaman called for exemptions for speciality cotton varieties like extra long staple cotton which is vital for domestic manufacturers who cannot compete with duty-free imports. He also proposed exemptions for cotton imports between April and October to curb pricing tactics and enhance competitiveness.
In terms of strategy, SIMA encourages members to focus on value addition, innovation and niche products. He highlighted opportunities under the ‘production linked incentive’ (PLI) scheme, PM Mitra Park (Pradhan Mantri Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel) and National Technical Textile Mission (NTTM) scheme for technical textiles. Dr Sundararaman applauded Tamil Nadu’s enriched textile policy and appealed to maintain favourable power and labour policies, crucial for the migrant worker-dependent industry.
In closing, the SIMA Chairman urged the industry to prioritise sustainability and explore coastal transport routes to reduce costs and environmental impact. The association is also set to launch a management development programme to nurture young entrepreneurs and start-ups.
