India’s ready-made garment (RMG) exports to the Middle East and Africa region reached $2.68 bn in the fiscal year 2022-23, and over $774.5 mn in the first seven months of the current fiscal year (2023-24), according to a recent report by the Research & Promotion Department of the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC).
The total RMG exports from India to GCC countries was reported to be $1.83 bn on year 2022-23 and over $541 mn up to July 2023.
To capitalize on the growing RMG export market to the Middle East and Africa region, the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI) is hosting a prestigious B2B trade show called ‘Brands of India’ at the Dubai World Trade Centre in Halls 6 & 7 from November 27-29, 2023.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) was the largest importer of Indian RMG in the Middle East and Africa region in 2022-23, with imports valued at $1.21 bn. During the first seven months of 2023-24, UAE imports of Indian RMG reached $368.78 mn.
Supported by the Embassy of India, the Dubai Textile Merchants Association (TEXMAS), Dubai Chamber International, and Readymade Garments Merchants Group Dubai, ‘Brands of India’ is set to be India’s largest apparel brands show in the Middle East. The trade show will bring together over 350 top Indian apparel brands, showcasing a diverse array of collections encompassing Indian ethnic wear, Western wear, and Fusion Wear across Men’s wear, Women’s wear, and Kid’s wear categories.
‘Brands of India’ has been meticulously designed to serve as the primary destination for wholesalers, retailers, distributors, importers, and departmental chains from the Middle East and Africa region to conveniently connect with leading Indian apparel brands. The trade show will feature over 350 brands in Men’s wear, Women’s wear, and Kid’s wear occupying 255 stalls and spread across 70,000 sq. ft. area at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Renowned brands such as Louis Philippe, BIBA, Soch, Stori, Cover Story, Sin, Ancestry, Indifusion, Touch, Dollar, Gini and Jony, Rachna Udyog, Siyaram, A-La Mode, Nostrum, Body Mark, and many others are participating in the show.
Rajesh Masand, President of CMAI says, “The ‘Brands of India’ trade show is a timely and important initiative for the Indian apparel industry. The Middle East & Africa are key export markets for our products, and this event will provide a unique platform for Indian brands to showcase their latest collections to a global audience of buyers. We are confident that the show will be a success and will help to further boost India’s RMG exports to the region.”
Jayesh Shah, Vice President of CMAI says, “The ‘Brands of India’ trade show is a testament to the growing strength and vitality of the Indian apparel industry. We are excited to bring together over 350 top Indian apparel brands under one roof to showcase their diverse and innovative collections to the world. The show is expected to attract a large number of buyers from the Middle East and Africa region, and we are confident that it will generate significant business opportunities for Indian brands. We are also grateful for the support of the Embassy of India and the Dubai Textile Merchants Association in making this event possible.”
“Indian apparel brands have attained competitive pricing while adhering to international quality standards. However, currently, a majority of India’s apparel exports are produced under the labels of buyers. Hence, there was a pressing need to establish a platform for the robust promotion of Indian apparel brands in the global marketplace. Aligned with the Government of India’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives, the Brands of India show by CMAI represents a significant stride in offering the initial platform for both National and Regional apparel brands to venture into international opportunities.” Rahul Mehta, Chief Mentor, CMAI, further added.
‘Brands of India’ promises an immersive experience where visitors can connect with Indian apparel brands and manufacturers, fostering new business relationships and exploring potential collaborations for mutual growth.
The strategic choice of Dubai as the tradeshow’s location is purposeful, leveraging the city’s global reputation for exceptional infrastructure, connectivity, free trade zones, and business-friendly policies, making it the optimal epicentre for international trade.
Some selected overseas buyers will be provided with privilege facilities such as one-night complimentary hotel stay, pre-fixed one-on-one meetings with participants of interest in Men’s wear, Women’s wear and Kids wear – casuals, ethnic and western formals, Arabic interpreter on request, access to on-site VIP lounge, and much more.
Some of the leading names to visit the Brands of India show include Lulu Group, Landmark Group, Apparel Group, Yellow Flower Group, Snow White Garments, BMA International, City Centre & Bait Awladona Co. (Kuwait) to name a few.
This trade show is a timely initiative by CMAI, as the RMG export market is growing rapidly. It is a unique opportunity for Indian apparel brands to showcase their products to a global audience and explore new business opportunities.
