Conversation with Salil Chawla, Director, DFU Publications, and R. D. Udeshi, Former President, Polyester Chain, Reliance Industries Ltd. (RIL), at Bharat Tex 2025.
Attending this prestigious event has been an enriching experience, allowing me to expand my knowledge of the polyester value chain. Engaging with diverse individuals and exploring a wide range of products has provided invaluable insights into the industry. It has been my privilege to understand the entire value chain in greater depth.
The Vision of Textile India as a Global Brand – A Catalyst for Growth?
The global market is increasingly adopting a "China Plus" strategy, presenting a significant opportunity for Indian manufacturers to take the lead. While India may not entirely replace China, it can certainly emerge as a strong alternative in key market segments. With abundant raw materials, including cotton, viscose, polyester, fiber, and filament, India is well-positioned to capitalize on this shift.
The country also boasts substantial loom capacity and processing infrastructure. However, to fully leverage this advantage, there is a pressing need to enhance processing capabilities, improve product quality, and adopt a more quality-conscious approach. Adhering to strict delivery schedules as per customer requirements will be crucial for long-term success.
The $150–$250 Billion Ambition – Reality or Mere Buzzword?
India’s textile industry has long been presented with substantial opportunities, yet it has often struggled to capitalize on them. The ambitious target of $250 billion is achievable, but it requires strategic efforts, including significant investments and a dedicated focus on both exports and the domestic market.
Despite current economic challenges—such as recessions in key markets like the UK, Japan, and Germany—economic downturns are cyclical and temporary. Once global recovery begins, demand for textiles, a fundamental necessity after food, will inevitably rise. India's ongoing improvements in this sector reinforce confidence in its potential growth.
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Sustainability and the Cotton vs. Non-Cotton Debate
Sustainability is a central theme in the industry, aligning the entire value chain toward responsible practices. However, the long-standing debate between cotton and synthetic fibers remains.
Given India's limited cotton production—approximately 5.5 million tonnes annually—and the global production cap of 25 million tonnes, synthetic fibers, particularly polyester, will play an increasingly dominant role in achieving the industry's growth targets.
For India to expand its textile market from $150 billion to $250 billion, an additional 8–10 million tonnes of fiber will be required, making polyester the inevitable choice for bridging the gap. The question is not whether this transition will happen, but rather whether it will take three years or five.