Jaipur’s apparel exporters have urged Ministry of Textiles (MoT) to support them amidst various challenges in businesses, which include exporting to Japan as well. In a meeting with UP Singh, Secretary, Textiles and Ajit B. Chavan, Secretary, Textiles Committee, the exporters have raised issues like lack of frequency, high cost of logistics, lower level of automation and longer delivery time, which are reducing the competitiveness of exporters. For Jaipur, Japan remains a major market and more than 70 percent of the consignments are sent by air.
Arif Kagzi, President, Association of Garment Exporters Sitapura (AGES), said “Jaipur is the most preferred destination for Japanese apparel buyers. However, there are issues that need to be addressed.” He further added that lack of automation is hurting the industry as delivery time by the exporters here is longer compared to rival exporting countries.
The issue of automation and high cost was also discussed in the meeting. The exporters shared that the automation machinery is costly as the exporters, who are mostly MSMEs, have to pay higher customs duty.
Buyers need quick delivery, but without advanced machinery and lack of other raw materials for quick sourcing, exporters end up losing buyers.
Aseem Singla, Director, Fashion Images Overseas and a leading exporter to Japan, said “Skill development institutions should impart training in operating and maintenance of latest machines and equipment. With manual work, not only does the quality suffer, but also productivity remains at lower levels. Without automation, skilled workers and ready availability of raw materials, it would be difficult to compete with the rival countries.”
Monu Karnani, General Secretary, AGES, said “There is a need to develop such procurement estates and clusters for the essential supplies of fabrics and accessories in Rajasthan to support the trade. Currently, the sources for procurement and supply of inputs are scarce which a major impediment to boost exports is.”
The exporters also appreciate the efforts of MoT to support the industry. The secretary understood the issues in detail and assured to support to the maximum.
Rajiv Dewan, CEO, Maam Arts; Naveen Adwani, Director, The Choice Fashions and few other exporters were also present in the meeting.
