INDIA. November VOL 02 I ISSUE 09 I November 2016 I Pages 64 R50

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1 INDIA November 2016 R50 LAY AYIN ING Insights int nto the rece cent ntly co nclude ded BRIC ICS summ mmit and wh at it mean ans for Indi a VOL 02 I ISSUE 09 I November 2016 I Pages 64 Profi ofiling two hig igh- en d jean ans brands A Report on th e Buye r Seller er Mee t in Barc rcel ona & Madr id, Spai ain R50

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3 APPAREL CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE DEAR FRIENDS, I am sure all of you have had a Wonderful Deepawali and I wish you all a prosperous New Year! Finally, the trend has changed and after a declining period in exports I am glad to share with you that exports grew at 3.7 per cent and 12.6 per cent during August and September respectively. Going forward, we are only expecting this to improve further. While our October events BSM Spain and ITF Tokyo fared well, I look forward to some pioneering efforts and a renewed vigour in our export promotion initiatives with our new Chairman, Export Promotion, Mr Anil Buchaisia. His vision to re-emphasise on the traditionally strong markets of EU and USA, where China has been vacating and his strategy roadmap for India to reposition, certainly hold promise. The need for efficient business models, product development and innovation cannot be substituted by any promotion activities. I call upon you all to avail of the AEPC s product development initiatives seek guidance, participate and promote. Many of you have participated in our SME Outreach programmes. Encouraged by your response, we are continuing our outreach efforts. We are also initiating training programmes to educate our members about availing the ROSL scheme benefits through establishment of Internal Complaints Committees (ICC). We are also rolling our multi-city calendar of Fashion forecast seminars, in partnership with WGSN, from this month, to help the industry keep pace with the fashion trends. Every month, I have the privilege of writing to you about AEPC to recognise our accomplishments, to address our challenges and to share with you our outlook and plans for the future. But, most importantly, I look at this as an opportunity to hear back from you and solicit ideas to enhance the future. None of our initiatives will be any good unless you are a part of them. Please come forward, participate actively and help us improve your experience with us. Warmest Regards, Ashok G Rajani I look forward to your suggestions/feedback at chairman@aepcindia.com

4 November 2016 R50 LAYING BRIC ICS For A Be tter Futu ture re! Insights into the recently concluded BRICS summit m and what it means for India Jean s Unli mi ted! Profiling two highh- end jeans bra nds Sp ai n Beck on s! A Report on the Bu yer Selle le r Meet et in Barcelona & Madrid,Spain COVER IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: CHAIRMAN AEPC Mr Ashok G Rajani VICE CHAIRMAN - EP Mr Amit N Goyal EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER Mr Rishi K Rajani ADDITIONAL SECRETARY GENERAL Mr Vijay Mathur PUBLISHER Apparel Export Promotion Council EDITORIAL Asst. Editor Kashmira Mirza Sub-Editor Prakrit Dhondiyal DESIGN Creative Art Director Parvez Shaikh Sr. Designers Sachin Bhogate Anand Dhuri Digital Imaging Ninad Jadhav ADMINISTRATION Bobby Daniel INDIA Design, Editorial and Printed at Spenta Multimedia Pvt Ltd Design and Editorial office: Peninsula Spenta, Mathuradas Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai Tel: (022) Fax: (022) ho@spentamultimedia.com Printing Press: Plot 15,16 & 21/1, Village Chikhloli, Morivali, MIDC, Ambernath (West), Dist. Thane

5 CONTENTS INSPIRE. INFORM. CONNECT. INDIA VOL 02 I ISSUE 09 I November 2016 I Pages I The Broadcast News from different segments of the industry 06 I Exporting To The Land Of The Rising Sun! A report on the seminar held by the RIS in collaboration with the ASEAN-India centre 10 I The Indo-Japanese Connect! A report on the Indo-Japanese collaboration at the 2nd India Trend Fair I The Indonesia-Malay Outreach A report on AEPC Meet in Indonesia and Malaysia 14 I Spain Beckons! 16 I Innovate, Integrate, Motivate! Insights into the 12th International Conference on Apparel and Home Textiles (ICAHT) 17 I On the Path To Progress! A report on the AEPC awareness meeting with exporters 18I Seminar For A Cause! A report on the ICC Seminar held for the AEPC National Team 22 I Going Mexicano! Exploring Mexico as a market for Indian apparel exports 28 I A Treasury Of Textile Exploring the National Textile Museum in Kuala Lumpur 34 I The Big US Election! Decoding the potential impact of the US election results on Indian trade and exports 38 I Laying BRICS For A Better Future! An overview of the impact of the trade and export 44 I Jeans Unlimited! 48I The Perfect Fit! Exploring new trends in men 50 I The Cashmere Charisma! Insights into the trade revolving 55 I Ministry Noti cation 56 I AEPC Noti cations 58 I Fashion Calendar A look at the upcoming fairs across the world 60 I AEPC Events Calendar A look at the proposed Export Promotion Events up to March

6 APPAREL THE BROADCAST INDIA S READY MADE GARMENT (RMG) EXPORT UPDATE FY (April-September) India s RMG Exports RMG exports were to the tune of US$ 1,282.9 million in September 2016 with an increase of 12.6 per cent against the corresponding month of September 2015 which was US$ 1,139.2 million. In rupee terms, exports for the month of September 2016 were R8,561.7 crores as against `7,543.2 crores in September 2015 with the increase of 13.5 per cent. India s RMG export to World in the April- September of was to the tune of US$ 8,448.8 million which has declined by 1.3 per cent compared to the same period of previous financial year. During April- September , India s apparel exports were to the tune of US$ 8,562.9 million. India's RMG Export to World Month FY FY MoM Growth of over (%) In INR In US$ In INR In US$ INR US$ Crore Million Crore Million April 9, , , , May 10, , , , June 10, , , , July 9, , , , August 8, , , , September 7, , , , April-September , , , , Source: DGCI&S, Kolkata, 2016 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

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8 APPAREL EVENTS AND REPORTS

9 EXPORTING TO THE LAND OF THE RISING SUN! APPAREL INDIA reports on the seminar held by the Research and Information System (RIS), in collaboration with the ASEAN-India Centre on October 6, 2016, in New Delhi. A seminar was organised by the RIS on Promoting India s Exports to Japan under India-Japan CEPA. The seminar was inaugurated by Mrs Nirmala Sitharaman, Hon ble Minister of State for Commerce and Industry (Independent Charge), in the presence of Mr Shyam Saran, Chairman, RIS, Mr V S Seshadri, Vice Chairman, RIS, Dr S Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary, Govt of India, H.E. Mr Kenji Hiramatsu, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Embassy of Japan in India, Mr H K Singh, Former Ambassador of India to Japan and current DG, Delhi Policy Group, Mr Naoyoshi Noguchi, Chief Director General of JETRO, New Delhi and Prof Abhijit Das, Head, Centre for WTO Studies, New Delhi. THE REPORT During the inaugural session, Mrs Nirmala Sitharaman stepped up on the stage to release a report, titled India-Japan CEPA: An Appraisal. Addressing the inaugural function, Mrs Nirmala Sitharaman said that there have been steps taken to sort out the implementation issues related to CEPA and improve bilateral trade, while, at the same time, balancing trade with Japan.

10 APPAREL EVENTS AND REPORTS Mr Vijay Mathur, Additional Secretary General, AEPC, was one of the panelists in this session Bringing Value and Volume to Indian Textile and Apparel Exports to Japan, which was chaired by Mr Jayant Dasgupta. JAPAN S TOP 10 IMPORTS FROM THE WORLD In his presentation, Mr Mathur gave insights into several things. The first amongst these was to apprise that in the list of Japan's Top 10 RMG imports from the world, China have been offloaded in all the 10 items. The offloaded items (given in the table alongside) bear a value of US$ 1 billion in the year 2015 over the year Product Code Japan's Top 10 RMG imports from the world Product Description Import in USD Mn. China Offloaded in Japan (USD Mn.) 2015 (World) Top 10 10, , Pullovers, cardigans and similar articles of manmade 2, fibres, knitted Pullovers, cardigans and similar articles of cotton, 1, knitted T-shirts, singlets and other vests, of cotton, knitted 1, T-shirts, singlets and other vests of other textile materials, knitted Women s/girls trousers and shorts, of cotton, not knitted Men s/boys trousers and shorts, of cotton, not knitted Men s/boys shirts, of cotton, not knitted Men s/boys anoraks and similar articles of manmade fibres, not knitted Men s/boys trousers and shorts, of synthetic fibres, not knitted Women s/girls overcoats of man-made fibres, not knitted Source: WITS, 2016 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

11 THE CASE STUDY: Mr Mathur also went on to present a case study wherein an Indian garment exporter has established exports to Japan by adopting some important changes: Attitudinal changes; from aggressive to collaborative. A word from the MD to the team Shortlisted Indian fabrics like khadi On their experience of participation in fairs in Japan, rented a design studio in Japan Displayed garments made on Japanese mannequins. Simultaneously displayed actual fabrics for feel & finish by buyers A display of Indian fabrics plus Japanese designs. Changes in the Development Phase Set up a design studio in a factory in Gurgaon Buyers suggested changes in Mannequin (body) Developed a new range of samples for the buyer. Changes in Factory premises One floor of production dedicated to Japanese buyers Visit by a Japanese technician to the factory for process setup At stores dept: All sewing machine parts & sewing accessories are marked by bins. At the floor land: Complete display of the process of sewing, Workers manual on input checks, width, length On the sewing machine: Full pictorial display of the machine, function of each part, role of parts of the machine For the production manager: Should know how to stich the garment For the tailor: Must know from where the stores will come (bin), Must know sewing process, Must know working manual, Must know the parts of sewing machines and its function, Must know how to correct the machine, Must clean the machine, adjust tension, speed, needle, Followed by a silent one minute payer. A commitment that zero defect garment shall be made Post manufacturing Step 1: Display of critical operations in sewing Step 2: Photo display of defects; to be shown to tailor Step 3: Corrective action so that defects are not duplicated Step 4: Distribute the garment in four zones for 100 per cent check: only one check Step 5: Repeat if required with step 1 Mr Mathur then went on to advise people to give the new opportunities of investment and reforms in garment sector. He also emphasised as to how Japanese firms can take the benefit of the garment package in the following areas: Japanese sewing machine manufacturers can supply sewing machine & equipments in large numbers. R2,500 crores worth new investments are already committed by Indian garment exporters in this department. One can supply/develop fabrics for Japanese market worth US$ 15 billion; the AEPC can connect fabric developer/manufacturer with garment exporters/india fabric manufacturers for collaboration. The AEPC can facilitate visit of Japanese Technicians and experts for process set up. The AEPC can facilitate visit of Japanese buyers & for fixing meetings for match making. The Embassy of Japan in India & AEPC can collaborate to make these tasks more convenient and efficient. 9 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

12 APPAREL EVENTS AND REPORTS THE INDO- JAPANESE CONNECT! APPAREL INDIA reports on the Indo-Japanese collaboration at the 2nd India Trend Fair 2016 Mr Yasuhiro Noto, Chairman, Japan-India Industry Promotion Association, initiated the opening ceremony at Belle Salle Shibuya, Tokyo, on account of the 2nd India Trend Fair He introduced H.E. Mr Sujan R Chinoy, Ambassador of India to Japan, Embassy of India, Tokyo, Dr Kavita Gupta, APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

13 Textile Commissioner, Government of India, Mr Yukio Ishibiki, Deputy Director, Lifestyle Industries Division, Manufacturing Industries Bureau, METI, Mr Shashi Somalwar, Honorary Chairman, Japan India Industry Promotion Association, as the dignitaries on the dais. The welcome address was delivered by H.E. Mr Sujan R Chinoy, followed by a speech by Dr Kavita Gupta and Mr Yukio Ishibiki. The address ended with a Vote of thanks, given by Mr Shashi Somalwar. After the welcome address, the dignitaries seated on the dias proceeded to cut the red ribbon. Mr Yasuhiro Noto presented a shawl to H.E. Ambassador & Dr Kavita Gupta on behalf of Mr Ashok Rajani, Chairman, Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC). At this point, the dignitaries were taken for a round of both the halls to interact with the participants at the Trade Fair. During these rounds, they spoke to these participants, listening to their suggestions and views with respect to boosting the business between Japan and India. His Excellency emphasised on the requirement of skill development with the cooperation of Japanese experts. He also advised the participants to share the problems they were facing in both the countries, so that he can help them out in any way he could. The total footfalls at the show were around 1,628. This number included buyers, wholesalers, shopkeepers and boutique owners. There were representatives from several Fashion designing Institutes, as well as from the media. Dr Kavita Gupta also made an attempt to visit all the stalls and met the individual participants. Majority of the participants have confirmed that they received very serious and fruitful enquiries from the reputed big names among the buyers in Tokyo, as well as several others from Osaka. The total number of orders booked during the Trade Fair is approximately worth US$ 1,245,343. Orders worth US$ 5,924,530 are under negotiation. 11 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

14 APPAREL EVENTS AND REPORTS THE INDONESIA MALAY OUTREACH

15 Mr Nikhilesh Giri, Deputy High Commissioner, High Commission of India, inaugurating the BSM at Kuala Lumpur. Mr Manish, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of India, inaugurating the BSM at Jakarta. AEPC in its export promotion activities for this year organised the first Buyer- Seller Meet at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on October 17, 2016, and at Jakarta, Indonesia, on October 19, 2016, with the assistance of the Indian Embassies in both the cities. Eight companies displayed nightwear, fabrics, knitted t-shirts, denim, trousers, men s shirts, etc, at the show. The BSM in Kuala Lumpur was inaugurated by Mr Nikhilesh Giri, Deputy High Commissioner, High Commission of India, in the presence of Mr S Sasikumar, Attaché (Commerce), High Commission of India, Mr Ravish Srivastava, Sr Manager (F&E), AEPC, and the participants. The BSM in Jakarta was inaugurated by Mr Manish, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of India, in the presence of Mr Anand Prakash, First Secretary, Embassy of India, Mr Ravish Srivastava, Sr Manager (F&E), AEPC, and all participants. All in all, it was indeed an event to remember. 13 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

16 APPAREL EVENTS AND REPORTS SPAIN BECKONS! APPAREL INDIA highlights the Buyer-Seller Meet at Barcelona and Madrid, Spain. From (L to R ) Mr S Harikrishnan, Joint Director, AEPC, Mr Saravanan Balasubramaniam, 3rd Secretary from Embassy of India and Mr Ashok G Rajani, Chairman, AEPC, Mr Sanjiv Kumar Malhotra, Dy Secretary General, AEPC. The Apparel Export Promotion Council has organised Buyer-Seller Meets in Spain since Based on the excellent response received during the BSMs, the AEPC decided to organise a Buyer-Seller Meet in Spain again in October 2016, from October 6 to 7 in Barcelona and October 10 to 11 in Madrid. Spain has been a very attractive market for Indian apparels. Indian apparel exports of US$ million to Spain were recorded during the year 2015, which accounts for a 4.5 per cent share in Spain s total garment imports of US$ 16,383.4 million. APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

17 (Above) Mr Siddhartha Chattopadhyay, Charge d' Affaires a.i. EOI, and Mr Saravana Balasubramaniam, Third Secretary of EOI, initiated the opening ceremony Madrid Buyer Seller Meet held from October 10 11, 2016, at Melia Avenda Amercia Hotel. (Below) Catalogue Display: For the rst time, AEPC created a platform for exporters who are not able to participate in the BSM directly. AEPC promptly displayed their catalogues and some of the buyers went through them. The meet was aimed at improving the presence of Indian garment manufacturers and exporters in the Spanish market and to explore the opportunities. AEPC with a total of 37 booths and over 65 representatives showcased the most vivacious collections in readymade garments. The exhibits included women s wear, menswear & children wear, scarves, stoles, shawls and fashion accessories and leather garments, leather goods, finished leather, etc. BSM, Barcelona: Mr Saravanan Balasubramaniam, 3rd Secretary from the Embassy of India and Mr Ashok G Rajani, Chairman, AEPC, initiated the opening ceremony of the Barcelona Buyer-Seller Meet held on October 6-7, 2016, at the Catalonia Plaza Hotel. Thereafter, all dignitaries were taken for a round of both the halls to meet each and every participant. During this process, the participants, in their conversations with the dignitaries, obtained insights, fresh suggestions and views to boost their businesses. A majority of the participants have confirmed that they received very serious and fruitful inquiries from reputed big buyers. Approximately 265 buyers from 187 companies including the important companies such as El Corte Ingles, Gocco, Kaotiko, Mayoral, New Caro, Messcalino, Pikolinos, and more, attended the Buyer-Seller Meet at Barcelona & Madrid. The exhibitors were happy with the footfalls. It was in very close cooperation with the Embassy of India in Spain, both in sending personalised invitations to buyers by the embassy and the development of the event. 15 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

18 APPAREL EVENTS AND REPORTS INNOVATE, INTEGRATE, MOTIVATE! APPAREL INDIA reports on the 12th International Conference on Apparel & Home Textiles (ICAHT) organised by the Okhla Garment & Textile Cluster (OGTC). Mr Ashok G Rajani, Chairman, AEPC, addressing at OGTCs 12th International Conference on Apparel & Home Textiles (ICAHT). The Okhla Garment & Textile Cluster organised its 12th International Conference on Apparel & Home Textiles (ICAHT) on October 15, 2016, at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. The theme of ICAHT-2016 was Innovate, Integrate, Motivate. The Chief Guest at the conference was Mr K K Jalan, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. Mr Ashok G Rajani, Chairman, AEPC, was the Guest of Honour at the conference. APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

19 APPAREL EVENTS AND REPORTS ON THE PATH TO PROGRESS! APPAREL INDIA reports on the AEPC awareness meeting with exporters in association with Regional Of ce of the Textile Commissioner, Noida. Mr H K L Magu, VC, AEPC, in the presence of Mr Pritam Goel, EC Member, AEPC, interacting at the AEPC awareness meeting with exporters in association with Regional Of ce of the Textile Commissioner Noida. Mr Ashok G Rajani, Chairman, AEPC, has been meeting exporters from all major clusters to discuss the government s latest R6,000 crore special package for apparel in great detail. He has made an effort to explain the modalities and how to avail of the benefits, as also to encourage the industry to scale up and employ new workmen in the industry. 17 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

20 APPAREL EVENTS AND REPORTS Mr HKL Magu, VC, AEPC, addressing to AEPC National Team at the ICC Seminar, Gurgaon. SEMINAR FOR A CAUSE! APPAREL INDIA reports on the Internal Complaints Committee Seminar held for the AEPC National Team. The AEPC had organised an Internal Complaints Committee Seminar for the AEPC National Team on October 5, 2016, at the Apparel House, Gurgaon. A total of 26 employees of the AEPC had participated in the seminar from all the Regional offices of the AEPC Tirupur, Chennai, Kolkata, Jaipur, Bengaluru, Ludhiana and the Head Office. The Seminar was inaugurated by Mr HKL Magu, Vice Chairman, AEPC, in presence of Mr Pritam Goel, Export Committee Member, AEPC. While addressing the people, he said, Women s safety and dignity is of prime APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

21 importance for this sector, with over 70 per cent of the workforce being women. The AEPC has taken up this responsibility to create awareness across India on the ICC and I expect the officers present today to reach out to the industry in their region and ensure creation of effective ICCs. Shri Vijay Mathur, ASG, AEPC, started the programme with a keynote. This keynote spoke of the AEPC Chairman s desire for the Constitution of a new Committee the Gen-Next Sub-Committee in the AEPC to infuse young ideas for the future development of garment exports from India. He gave a brief presentation on the Special Package announced by the government and explained all the points and queries linked to the ROSL scheme. Mr Mathur also explained the need for ICC and expectations from RO and HO officials of the AEPC. The ICC Seminar was organised by AIDER a congressional aide NGO. Mr V K Jha from AIDER introduced the AIDER team and handed the baton to Ms Retu Singh to take the seminar further. The ICC Seminar constitutes the following significant topics related to ICC: Formation of Internal Complaints Committee The Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) shall have four members. Internal Complaints Committee has been constituted of following members as nominated by the Company Presiding Officer/ Chairperson who is a senior woman employee from either the workplace or from other admin. units, offices and organisations. Two Members who are committed to the cause of women, who have experience in social work and have legal knowledge. One member from an NGO or some other women s organisation who is familiar with issues relating to sexual harassment. Mr Vikram Pandita of NEXT explaining the NEXT Code of Practice: Approach for 2015/ APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

22 APPAREL EVENTS AND REPORTS A group photograph session of the AEPC national team. The tenure of each committee is three years. The committee should be reconstituted after this time period, preferably through a consensus of the women workers. The name of the members of the Internal Complaints Committee is as per the policy. Any change in such composition shall be effected in the policy. At least half of the total members of the committee have to be women. The presiding officer and every member shall hold their post for this period not exceeding three years from the date of their nomination, specified by the employer. Functioning of the Committee: 1 The committee should hold at least one meeting in each quarter. 2 A report of the meetings and any cases received should be documented and an annual report covering details of meetings held and complaints received and resolved should be submitted to Local Complaints Committee. 3 The names of the ICC committee of an unit should be prominently displayed in public places in the unit premises. 4 The committee should receive training on the grievances that are in its mandate (no criminal cases, or cases of assault should be handled by the ICC. Only cases of harassment should be handled). The committee should also be trained to stick to the time frame within which cases need to be resolved. Why an ICC: 1 An ICC gives the unit a good opportunity to resolve worker disputes internally, thus saving time and costs. 2 It gives greater control to the organisation in managing disputes. 3 It gives more confidence to women workers and a feeling of safety. 4 In the absence of an ICC, the workers will resort to filing cases with the LCC or under the IPC. Mr Vikram Pandita, NEXT, also the joined the seminar and gave the presentation 'on NEXT Code of Practice: Approach for 2015/16. During this presentation, he said, The Modern Slavery legislation of UK makes it very important that brands ensure best working conditions and the safety of women in their supply chain. Workers are the biggest asset and the industry needs to nurture them to ensure trust and a sense of belonging. I am happy that the AEPC has accorded such significance to the ICC and is working for its implementation across India. APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

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24 APPAREL MARKET FOCUS APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

25 GOING SAMIR ALAM explores Mexico as a market for Indian apparel exports. 23 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

26 APPAREL MARKET FOCUS Mexico is a country shrouded in the exotic. It is known the world over for its sun-kissed beaches, gyrating dances, sensual music and passionate people but despite its laid back, easy going appearance, it is one of the most hardworking and industrious economies in the world. As a signatory of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the upcoming Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement (TPP), the Mexican economy is marked for rapid growth. The country is well on its way to joining the ranks of developed countries by 2022 with a self-sufficient demand driven domestic market. This surge in growth over the past 20 years has been noticed by international brands such as H&M and Forever 21 who now wish to explore the retail business growth in the country. In this month s Market Focus, we dive into the state of the Mexican apparel and textile industry and explore the exciting developments ahead. Economy Overview According to the World Bank 2015 reports on economic rankings, Mexico is the 15th-largest economy in terms of Gross Domestic Product. The economy has shown a continuous growth at 2.5 per cent, throughout the period with a GDP of US$ trillion, and a gross per capita income of US$ 18,430 three times that of India. As one of the closest trading partners of the United States, the country s economy suffered significantly due to the 2008 recession. According to the CRS Report submitted to the United States Congress, the period of witnessed Mexico s GDP contracting by 6.6 per cent a loss of wealth amounting to nearly US$ 200 billion in less than a year. It wasn t until 2011 that the country could come back to its pre-recession levels of income and gain any momentum. Since 2011, the Mexican economy has been on a gradual rise but this has been far from a perfect journey. With the recent incidents of political instability, spiking inflation, depreciating currency, rise in energy costs and rising unemployment, posing critical ALL IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

27 retail sales were targeted outside the country, the shift towards domestic consumption is on the rise. With rising incomes and a more youth based demographic, more than 20 international retail brands such as CK, Tommy Hilfiger, Kate Spade, Zara and Abercrombie & Fitch have struck licensing deals with domestic sales companies. Other independent luxury brands like Burberry, Michael Kors and Tory Burch have also entered the Mexican market, catering to lifestyle consumers. At present, the textile and apparel sector contributes nearly 4.7 per cent to the GDP in terms of manufacturing while providing 20 per cent of all employment. The industry produces high demand synthetic fibres such as synthetic/artificial hybrid fibers (rayon) and textured polyester dyes, along with upholstery and industrial fabrics used in the automotive challenges for achieving future success. While these issues are being managed by the Mexican government, the overall predictions for the long term appear positive with new benefits expected from the TPP trade and massive political reforms. In this context, the apparel and textile industry of Mexico has proven to be a resilient performer. Mexico and the Textile-Apparel Industry At its peak until 2002, the Mexican apparel and textile industry was booming with tremendous trade within North America. Since then the industry has suffered a 40 per cent decline in exports and job losses upwards of 500,000. This is mainly due to an increased competitiveness from China and other Southeast Asian countries. In order to tackle this phenomenon, the Mexican apparel and textile sector has been undergoing a massive restructuring, in order to become more competitive and technologically advanced. However, due to the falling oil prices and the depreciation of the local currency, this process has suffered temporary setbacks. The economic structure of consumption has also changed over time for the better. While prior to 2002, over 80 per cent of 25 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

28 APPAREL MARKET FOCUS industry. However, the impact of globalised trade and the recession has resulted in net negative exports due to the dependence of non-local raw materials. This has resulted in offshoot deals between Mexico and China motivated by lower costs in Asia. Between 2008 and 2013, the imports of clothing from China increased by 559 per cent. Despite this shift, Mexico is the second-largest economy in Latin America, poised to become number one in the next ten years. This is mainly on the strength of its domestic consumer market which is 120 million in number and becoming more prosperous by the year. The Mexican government is also providing support to the sector with US$ 30 million in financing for 2015, directed towards upgrading machinery and equipment. The Mexican Service Agency for the Commercialisation and Development of Agriculture Markets is also working to create better flow between domestic cotton production and textile manufacturing. Local businesses have adopted new enterprise technology solutions such as Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) to increase profitability and have established globally desirable manufacturing facilities. A special advantage Mexican manufacturing has over most of Asia is its conformity to internationally stipulated labour safety standards and positive labour relations. And while its current labour organisations are pleasing to investors and global brands, there do exist ongoing domestic labour disputes with regards to corruption within unions and the demands for higher wages. So as the country undergoes a period of reform and restructuring, with sound public-private partnership within the industry, the outlook for the future remains bright. All of Mexico s major trading partners such as the United States, Canada and China have given it positive reviews which are reflected in rising domestic incomes. All these factors make Mexico s apparel and textile market an appealing investment opportunity for brands looking to leverage not only manufacturing but also retail earnings in the long term. India-Mexico Trade Relations During , Mexico overtook Brazil to become the largest importer of Indian exports in Latin America with US$ billion in trade. This marks a 31 per cent growth over the previous year. The rise in importing of Indian goods has coincided with Mexico s economic recovery and demonstrates a positive trade relationship between the two countries. However, it is important to note that the bulk of this trade has been in the automobile and pharmaceutical sectors. In reverse terms, India's imports from Mexico amounted to US$ 2.28 billion in 2015, half of which was oil. Regionally there is a pre-existing imbalance of trade between India and Latin America, since the latter has held a 4.6 per cent share in India s international trade, while India has only held 1.5 per cent share in Latin American foreign trade. In textiles, India has been second only to the United States in terms of cotton yarn exports to Mexico which amounted to US$ million in India also exported US$ million worth of polyester filament yarn during the same period, ranking third behind the United States and China. While these figures are fairly humble in relation to the overall trade, they are a positive indicator for areas of growth. APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

29 As India enjoys a positive reputation as a trade partner, it is only a matter of developing more proactive deals in the future. The current focus needs to be towards developing a favourable trade agreement with Mexico and other Latin American countries. By taking advantage of China s changing profile, India can gain massive new export markets in Latin America, where Mexico is an essential partner. The Indian government on behalf of the textile and apparel industry can promote trade in the Latin American region by extending credit for business, as it did successfully in Africa and Asia over the last decade. India can also take advantage of its current prominence in other sectors such as automobiles and pharmaceuticals to develop a regional trade strategy that not only beats China but the Asian beneficiaries of the TPP such as Vietnam. To accomplish this goal, Mexico would be the only place to begin. The question that remains is simply about strategy how and when will India implement its response to the opportunities Mexico provides and, as always, the answer lies in the hands of both, the industry and the government. 27 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

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31 APPAREL GOING GLOBAL Malaysia, strategically located in South-East Asia, comprises of two regions of Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia separated by the South China Sea. It has long enjoyed land and maritime links and trade with countries. Being at the crossroads of maritime trade, the region imported and exported coveted commodities including a variety of textiles. One of the most prized traditions that emerged from the trade and skills of the Malays were textiles, encompassing an array of textile techniques and handcrafted textiles. These remain a wonderful vibrant living tradition. A TREASURY TEXTILE SHUTTERSTOCK.COM The National Textile Museum at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, has a wonderful collection of textiles and garments that will inspire textile lovers and designers. BRINDA GILL examines the different galleries of this slice of authentic Malaysian history.

32 APPAREL GOING GLOBAL The National Textile Museum, in the capital, Kuala Lumpur, displays a wealth of textiles that speak of the rich living textile heritage of the country and the diversity of the country s people and cultures. It offers a tryst with beautiful textiles that along with explanations of textile techniques offer an insight into the country s traditions while being immensely inspiring for textile lovers, historians and designers. A HERITAGE BUILDING The National Textile Museum is located in an elegant heritage building on Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin road and near Independence Square, which is home to many historic and heritage sites and buildings. It was built as the headquarters of the Federated Malay States Railway, and was completed in Inspired by Moorish architecture, the ground plus one level building has a long eyecatching facade of a colonnade with arched openings on both levels, with exposed red and plastered white brickwork enhancing its beauty. In subsequent years, it housed different government departments and institutions. It was designated the National Textile Museum in October 2007 and opened to the public on January 9, The stated role of the National Textile Museum is to collect, research, document and display the national textile collection. It was created to preserve the unique and treasured traditional textiles of the country with a special emphasis on the hand-crafted textiles of its multi-ethnic society comprising of the Malay, Chinese, Indian, Orang Asli and the indigenous peoples of Sabah and Sarawak. Through its collection and displays, the museum traces the evolution of Malaysian textile from the prehistoric times. THE LAYOUT The museum has a simple and easy to navigate design, with one gallery on either side of the main central entrance on the ground floor. A broad flight of steps takes visitors to the higher level, where there are a similar pair of galleries one on either side of the central landing. The textiles have been organised in these four galleries. The ground floor has the Pohon Budi and Pelangi Galleries; the upper level has the Ratna Sari and Teluk Berantai Galleries. The textiles and garments are aesthetically and attentively displayed in different ways such as being draped vertically, being draped on mannequins, with photographs of Malays in traditional attire. With life-size models at work, the museum conveys the method of working a particular textile technique. Information is printed in Malay and English, making it easier for visitors to understand the displays. The galleries are judiciously lit to offer adequate lighting to see the textiles and read the information. This is to preserve the heritage textiles and to create an aesthetic ambience to enjoy viewing the textiles. Visitors can savour the sight of beautiful songkets or silk sarongs often referred to as the Queen of Fabrics in Malay weaving, for their complex weaving technique, intricate and elaborate patterns, beautiful colour combinations, and the incorporation of gorgeous supplementary gold yarn in the weaving. POHON BUDI GALLERY The Pohon Budi or the Tree of Life Gallery takes the visitor on a walk through time as it unfolds the evolution of textiles in Malaysia. The exhibits of textiles, exhibition models showing textile techniques, tools and materials, and printed information on textiles APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

33 DEPARTMENT OF MUSEUMS, MALAYSIA DEPARTMENT OF MUSEUMS, MALAYSIA DEPARTMENT OF MUSEUMS, MALAYSIA DEPARTMENT OF MUSEUMS, MALAYSIA

34 APPAREL GOING GLOBAL and textile technique encompass the history of traditionally handcrafted textiles. From gold thread embroidery to printing, batik techniques, resist-dyeing, weaving, beadwork, calendaring and gilding, different techniques are explained with beautiful textiles displayed alongside to understand the practice. A part of this collection are striking traditional textiles the songket (a silk sarong woven with metallic gold yarn), pua kumbu (a ceremonial cotton cloth used by the Iban in Sarawak), telepuk (a cloth with floral motifs embellished with gold leaf or dust) and tekatan (gold thread embroidery on velvet with an embossed effect) among many displays. The printed information and displays are instructive: the instructions for the pua kumbu give details on the creation of the patterned, multi-coloured textile. The beauty of delicate Sulaman embroidery is conveyed in the attire draped on a mannequin; that of the ceremonial headcloth kain pis offers information on the technique of embroidery (that produces motifs on both sides of the cloth); and that of hand-drawn batik is highlighted in neatly displayed fabrics. PELANGI GALLERY The Pelangi, or the 'Rainbow Gallery' symbolises the different ethnic groups of Malaysia, each with their individual traditions and colourful textiles, who together compose the vibrant textile heritage of the country. The gallery presents a selection of heritage textiles of different communities and different techniques-the batiks of the Malays (tie and dye batik and batik canting), Baba and Nyonya textiles, that is garments of men and women of ethnic Chinese-Malays; Indian textiles; and ethnic Sarawak and Sabah textiles. The gallery is informally divided into two spaces by the displays, and a large low platform in this section allows the visitor to sit and enjoy the beauty of the textiles and the space. The textiles and garments speak as much of the skill of artisans as it does of the vibrant trade in centuries past at ports in Malaysia, and the pluralistic culture of the country. RATNA SARI GALLERY Up the majestic broad staircase, its retaining walls embellished with textile displays, one reaches the higher level. As the name suggests, the Ratna Sari Gallery displays adornments that encompass a spectrum of objects from buckles to bangles, bracelets, necklaces, and more made of different materials from beads to gold, crafted by artisans of different communities. These objects complement the exquisite textiles and garments crafted indigenously, and speak amply how striking the wearer would look attired in local dress and adornments! TELUK BERANTAI GALLERY Songket motifs are composed in different ways: scattered, full patterned or placed between the chain of bays or teluk berantai, horizontal or vertical stripe arrangements. The second gallery on the higher level is the Teluk Berantai or chain of bays; the gallery takes its name from the songket pattern of the same name that speaks of a pattern that is interlocked and thus a symbol of unit of Malay communities. The gallery has a fantastic selection of rich textiles that are woven with silk and metal yarn; embroidered with metal yarn; bear embroidery appliqué; are woven with weft ikat technique; embellished with gold leaves/dust. These beautiful textiles, that speak a thousand words in their warp and weft, leave a last impression on the visitor and make for an unforgettable experience. IMAGES ON FACING PAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

35 Museum Website: (Admission Free) Suggested Reading: National Textile Museum published by the Department of Museums Malaysia, available at the museum, There is a counter of publications near the reception, There is a museum shop, Gallery Saindera hosts thematic exhibitions, activities and public programmes. 33 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

36 APPAREL INSIGHTS THE BIG US ELECTION! SAMIR ALAM reports on how the results of the US elections can potentially impact Indian trade & exports. APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

37 In the era of globalised business, India has proved to be a profitable partner for the United States, a trend which is looked upon favourably by governments and businesses on both sides. In fact, India has been positioned by the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce as a significant investment target for Indian and US enterprises with bilateral trade expected to rise to US$ 500 billion annually in the near future. Such a goal can only be achieved with political cooperation and the support of both the governments an assumption which can t be taken for granted given the current state of American politics. PRIMER ON US ELECTIONS 2016 American politics over the last year has been an extraordinary affair. The ongoing battle between the two American political parties has gone from being a battle of ideologies to becoming a surreal reality show. On one side we have former Secretary of State for the United States Hillary Clinton and on the other side we have the star of a primetime reality show Donald Trump; a match-up that noone in the world could have predicted. And while many experts believe that the outcome of the Presidential debates have conclusively been in favour of Hillary Clinton, it is abundantly clear that Trump s victory would be highly unlikely, if not outright impossible. However, despite this confidence, it is worth noting that Trump s politics is demonstrably irrational and volatile. Until recently his long-standing position on India was vehemently hostile with respect to trade and immigration. His condemnation and ignorance of the H-1B visa was proven 35 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

38 APPAREL INSIGHTS at the Presidential debates when he said, H-1B, whatever it is, I use it but I don t like it. I want to scrap all H-1B visas. This issue alone gravely affects Indian enterprises, impacting billions of dollars of business every year. In contrast to such a statement, Trump has also shown extreme eagerness to garner the support of the Indian business community within the United States. In October, Trump reached out to the Hindu community and attempted to acquire funding from them by pledging his support in the fight against terrorism. Trump s use of fear tactics to garner power isn t new, and goes to explain his consistently opportunistic attitude when it comes to dealing with his potential supporters. However, the more worrying trend has been Trump s resistance towards providing any specific economic proposals and plans. Donald Trump prefers to simply make promises without providing any commitments or proofs. This pattern of behaviour has landed him in court for breach of contract on numerous occasions against many business partners over the decades an unnerving indication to anyone who thinks they can trust his assurances. Despite whatever the final election outcome may be, India Inc can t take Trump at his word and must be prepared to diversify their trade relations and reduce dependency on a potentially Trump led United States in FUTURE OF INDIA-US TRADE The United States has always taken a proactive approach towards building trade ties with other nations. At present, the US has Free Trade Agreements with 20 countries including most of Latin and North America, Israel and Singapore. It is also on the cusp of ratifying the newest and most significant trade agreement in modern history the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement which would consolidate its trading positions with nations such as Australia, Japan, Australia, Malaysia, Vietnam and New Zealand, amongst others. The US is also in negotiations to finalise another ambitious partnership the Transatlantic Trade and ALL IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

39 Investment Partnership (T-TIP) which would strengthen its position with the European Union. Notably, the US has no such deal with India and given the threat of a Trump presidency this just might be a good thing. However, the United States and India do operate under various non-binding initiatives that are meant to foster positive economic ties. Programs under the Trade Policy Forum such as the U.S-India CEO Forum, Innovation Forum, the US- India Information and Communication Technology Working Group and discussions on a Bilateral Investment Treaty, have all been baby-steps towards creating a high standard trade agreement, but without any binding resolutions. This gradual evolution however hasn t diminished the state of economic relations, as evidenced by the fact that India is the 11th largest goods trading partner of the United States. With trade ever increasing from US$ 63.7 billion in 2013 to US$ 109 billion in , the lofty aspirations for a US$ 500 billion aren t impractical, provided the path is ahead is founded on sound economic leadership from both sides. APPAREL AND TEXTILE TRADE WITH US Under a Trump led United States, apparel and textile businesses can be assured that trade with the US will be a contentious affair. He has publicly written in his book Time To Get Tough that he supports a 15 per cent tax on companies that outsource jobs to countries like India and, more importantly, he favours a 20 per cent tariff on the import of goods and services. At present, India s textile exports to the US have fallen by about one per cent over 2016, which is a significant change considering the Year-Over-Year growth of 8.2 per cent in On the other hand, the apparel sector is still showing growth as of date, with a one per cent increase over And even as the textile market expects to recover by the beginning of next year, hostile trade policies as opined by Trump will not help business in any manner. The other issue on the lookout for businesses is the effects of the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement or TPP that the USA has finalised with the twelve Pacific Rim countries which include India s major textile and apparel competitor-vietnam. This agreement, if ratified by the US government, will have a major impact on the Indian apparel and textile sector. Since the TPP agreement will favour yarn produced in a TPP member country, India will lose out and bring its standing as the world s sixth largest textile and apparel exporter under threat. In the long term this will greatly benefit Vietnam over India, who will gain duty-free access to US markets. Internally, the Indian government has already taken steps to strengthen the industry with a R6,000 crore package, an investment of R1,480 crore towards Amended Technology Upgraded Fund (A-TUF) Scheme incentive and R100 crore under the Scheme for Integrated Textile Parks (SITP). While these measures are expected to help in India s global competitiveness, there is in no denying that any tariff obstacles to the US markets will hamper growth. In that regard, the political positions of US Presidential candidates can make a significant difference. Hillary Clinton has gone on the record to state her opposition to the TPP but it is highly unlikely that it will result in any significant change to its implementation or consequence towards India. The bottom-line remains that while Trump and Hillary are both seemingly against the TPP it is Donald Trump who is more stridently against Indian businesses. Should the TPP agreement come into effect, the Indian textile and apparel sector can still remain competitive by taking over from China as an export leader. According to World Bank reports, increase in China s export prices can result in a per cent increase in imports from India from US markets. By leveraging its lead and innovating further in technology, industry management and labour systems, India can hope to outperform Vietnam, Bangladesh, and perhaps China as well. For business it will always be easier on the Indian government to work with a Hillary administration, just as it has in done so in the past with the Obama administration. Rather than dealing with the volatile fluctuations that Trump is known for, it is far more preferable to compete against the TPP. In terms of trade, the key requirements for success have always been the predictability of policies and the enforcement of trade agreements between member countries an assurance that Trump can t be relied on to provide. 37 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

40 APPAREL INSIGHTS LAYING FOR A BETTER FUTURE! BINDU GOPAL RAO gives an insight into the recently concluded 8th BRICS summit and what it means for India. BRICS Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa is neither an organisation nor an institution but an annual summit of these countries which represent three billion people (or 40 per cent of the world's population and account for $20 trillion of the GDP), which is growing at a rate of 28 per cent. With the Central Government s Make in India policy getting a big push, it is exactly in summits like these that India can encash this brand proposition. In fact, better the relations amongst these nations, the better it will augur for them and indirectly for the world. The growth of trade amongst these nations is a win-win scenario, for all. In fact, each country is currently battling its own set of issues, whether it is Brazil's biggest recession, Russia's falling economy, China's The idea of this summit is to provide a collaborative trade and economy and help each other to mitigate problems and aid mutual growth. and South Africa's stagnant growth and India's lack of jobs. The idea of this summit is to provide a collaborative fillip to mutual trade and economy and help each other to mitigate problems and aid mutual growth. THE BRICS IMPACT The relevance of BRICS has dimmed considerably. If we look at the countries comprising it, all of them barring India, have shown slowing economies. Also, Russia and China are trying to increase their influence in Asia by supporting various regimes. The recent BRICS Summit, which commenced just after the Uri attack, strained relations between India and Pakistan. China, being a strong ally of Pakistan, has not helped. While there might be some impact due to ALL IMAGES COURTESY: MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

41 39 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

42 APPAREL INSIGHTS straining of relations with a trading giant like China in the near term but the overall impact will not be substantial on the trade industry in India, says Pranal Modani, Director, Sangam Lifestyle Ventures Ltd, a Sangam group initiative. Even though a lot of consignments with regards to raw materials, clothing supplies and other apparel related features are imported from China. The supply from China is costeffective for businesses in India. However, after China, India s strongest trading partners are Russia & Brazil. India's EXIM trade with the BRICS nations was strong at 6.5 per cent and 7.8 per cent respectively, in 2015 and We will have to wait and see what the impact will be. TEXTILE DEVELOPMENT The first BRICS Trade Fair and Exhibition was held before the BRICS political summit this year as a major initiative was proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The fundamental premise for this came from the fact that measures like this need to be taken to deepen intra-brics economic engagement, trade and investment ties. The trade fair showcased 20 key sectors, including textiles and apparel. The most important development under BRICS has been the creation of the New Development Bank which aims to serve as a source of finance for developing and emerging economies to meet their developmental needs. The four original BRICS countries are expected to represent 47 per cent of the global GDP by 2050, which would dramatically change the list of the world s ten largest economies. An important change that we may expect over the medium to long term is that the top ten countries in terms of GDP may be different from the top ten countries in terms of per capita GDP. The inherent strength of BRICS emanates from strong, domestic and demand-based economies in the case of India and Brazil and the significant outward linkages of China and Russia, says Arvind Sinha, Business Advisors Group, Mumbai, according to a Textile Association (India) report. We can comfortably say that the BRICS region is providing textiles of all types to seven billion people around the world. Everybody, wherever they are, are using some textile products manufactured by the BRICS Region. The textile and apparel industry has, on several occasions, shown that it is an industry of great relevance for the Brazilian economy, and has a strong social impact. Textile production worldwide grew by 97 per cent for the last ten years, international trade in textiles and clothing grew by 175 per cent, if we consider only the clothing, and the growth was even greater, 220 per cent over the same period. APPAREL MATTERS While the impact on the apparel industry will not be immediate, there is a general consensus that things will change over the long term. The meeting held between Mr Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping is a positive step for improving the bilateral relationship between the two countries. As they discussed that terrorism should not be a reason that affects relations between the countries. If this actually happens, the trade sector, including the apparel sector wouldn t be affected. If not, there might be an impact on the apparel industry, but we believe that the Indian apparel industry is resilient enough to weather these storms, says Modani. Vineet Chhajer, Director, Vineet's Sarees, explains, China, though an essential part of BRICS, is the biggest competition in textiles among the BRICS countries but our textile sector in India is now upgraded and with the advent of new import restrictions, is shaping well enough to take the competition head on. The handloom sector has undergone a major revamp and the mills in Surat are at par (if not ahead) with the best in the world. The imports have decreased from China but that is not because of the BRICS summit but because of a general mood in the country towards Chinese products and their dual policy towards Pakistan and terrorism. SWOT ANALYSIS The general consensus is that all opportunities can be explored only if terrorism is kept away from trade and business as an industry, in totality. The challenges would arise if issues with China are not completely resolved, as APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

43 After China, India s strongest trading partners are Russia & Brazil. 41 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

44 APPAREL INSIGHTS Clothing demand is rapidly increasing in the emerging markets of South Africa, Russia and Brazil. Garment sales are growing eight times higher in developing and emerging economies as compared to the developed world. India will have to strengthen its trade ties with other countries who can better the businesses in India. The case in point is the improved relationship with Japan, as seen in their commitment to contribute to the bullet train project. India and Brazil signed four MoUs, which could further strengthen ties between these two countries. The growing demand for garments in Brazil, Russia and South Africa three important economies in the five-member BRICS block gives an immense business opportunity to Pakistan s textile industry to expand sustainable production, says Modani. Clothing demand is rapidly increasing in the emerging markets of South Africa, Russia and Brazil. Garment sales are growing eight times higher in developing and emerging economies as compared to the developed world. Two other BRICS members China and India are also lucrative markets but these two economies already produce all types of clothing to cater their domestic markets. Pakistan s apparel manufacturers could grab the fast-growing clothing market. Millions of people are entering the middle class market every year in the developing countries. The main challenge is not price, but sustainable production. GOVERNMENT IMPETUS The opportunities for India lie in the manufacturing setup in the remaining countries like Brazil, Russia and South Africa. "Our handloom is the best in the world and I am sure the trade would be boosted in these countries and that too, at premium pricing. Although our government is taking steps to revitalise the Indian economy, the MSMEs could be taken special care of by providing a better setup, aid and upgradation. The ongoing scenario of the world economy has not been the best and most supportive. I think it is time our government to help boost trade and smooth business and trade, Chhajer concludes. APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

45 Connecting Global Competence Register by January 11, 2017 to receive an early bird discount! munich.ispo.com/ticket TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE LARGEST MULTI-SEGMENT TRADE FAIR WITHIN THE SPORTS INDUSTRY. FEBRUARY 5 8, 2017 AT ISPO MUNICH. Experience trends for yourself. Make your business fit for the future. Forge international contacts. All at ISPO MUNICH 2017! Over 2,600 exhibitors from around the world await you with exciting innovations and product highlights from segments such as Action Sports, Outdoor, Performance, Ski, and Sportstyle. During the four days of the show and 365 days per year at ISPO.com ISPO.COM MMI India Pvt. Ltd. / Tel / / smeeta.more@mmi-india.in

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47 APPAREL BRAND PROFILE Unlimited! CHITRA BALASUBRAMANIAM pro les two luxury jeans brands GAS and Diesel. ALL IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM There is something about jeans that has inspired countless brands. Apart from the strong and popular international brands, there are local jeans brands, unbranded jeans brands and then, there are the rip offs. If there is one garment which makes excellent business sense all throughout the year, across the world, it is a pair of jeans. Yes, the classic blue jeans a pair of jeans very comfortable with little maintenance. It is what hostel life and college life is all about. Well worn, comfortable and stylish with élan, it can be clubbed with a jacket to give it an informal sartorial slickness. Blue jeans are the byword in casual dressing. The world today is moving towards informal dressing. Dressing at the work place has gone from the straight formal to casual and Friday dressing. Cool jeans take on a new dimension or avatar. Jeans, the ultimate in casual wear, has been extended to formal wear as well. denim has numerous avatars. Therefore, it is not surprising that some of the strongest brands are related to denim. Two such brands from Italy hold the fort. Interestingly they are named after fuel the strong macho names of GAS and Diesel. It brings to mind the ruggedness of the attire. Both the brands were created in the fashionable design world of Italy. The core business of both the brands is Denim. The brands have had an iconic rise and following. Both have a presence in the Indian market with a tie up with Reliance Brands. Diesel is known for its premium luxury range of denims. Diesel s story is its ability to effortlessly move from denim to being a luxury lifestyle brand. GAS s range of apparel encompasses excellent designs for men and women. It is also known for its range of accessories. The companies pay homage to their Italian roots with excellence; both, in design, as well as the quality of production. GAS GAS, the premium denim jeans brand was launched in the early 70s by Claudio Grotto. This was done in the heart of North-East Italy.

48 APPAREL BRAND PROFILE The group now known as the Grotto Group is active in branded clothing for men, women and children. It also produces footwear and accessories. As the company puts it, Since 1984, Grotto Group has been designing, manufacturing and distributing men s, women s and children s clothing, footwear and accessories collections with the GAS brand. Denim is GAS core business and DNA. It is its history and its future. An inseparable relationship that has marked its growth and recognisability, and which continues to be its cornerstone, the element that its collections revolve around. The Group describes its products as, Products that meet the needs of the intelligent, aware, international and cosmopolitan consumer. Contemporary clothing that goes beyond the fashions of the moment to express the wearer s individuality on all occasions. A knowing synthesis between essential shapes, the highest attention to detail and sensuality of expression place GAS among today s most authoritative interpreters of the world of denim and its evolution over time. The company has expanded rapidly from its roots. GAS operates in 56 countries all over the world with a presence in 3,000 stores. The company lays emphasis on its Italian roots. It is aggressive in its offering and fashion updates. The company targets the youth and has a certain exuberance in its products. The current season offering for men is described as, celebrating the energy and originality of MILLENIALS, the digital natives who are both the audience and protagonists of the shots. It radiates a sense of rebirth and positive energy that starts in Italy and reaches out around the world. The protagonists, real boys and girls and not models, this time around, are Europeans, picked, like before, for their originality and for the passions driving them. In India, the brand has a joint venture with Reliance Brands. GAS has done very well in India. As puts it, GAS has made some peculiar choices also concerning exports. They were considered extravagant, but today they are bearing fruit: Some years ago, the company had invested in India. Today, it produces 10 per cent of the revenues and is their real emerging market. They are working on a joint venture with their Indian partner, aimed at doubling in three years the country's weight on our income. The company also filed an application with the DIPP (Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion) to set up single brand retail stores in India. This follows the change in FDI policy for single brand retail in India. The company was APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

49 operating on the franchise route. With growth figures coming from India, it is but natural to go all out in the market. DIESEL Diesel sells luxury premium denim jeans focussing on young adults for its customer base. The company again took birth in Italy Breganze. The brand was started by Renzo Rosso in In a smart move, he chose the name Diesel as he felt it was a name which was pronounced the same the world over. The brand targets the young adult market. Rosso acquired the company becoming the sole owner in Thereafter he crafted the meteoric rise of the brand to its current avatar. The success story of Diesel is spelt out by the company in its website, it says, Diesel has experienced extraordinary growth and has evolved from being a leading pioneer in denim into the world of premium casual wear, becoming a true alternative to the established luxury market. What has remained unchanged is the vision and philosophy with which the company was begun. As the company states, Diesel s philosophy has remained the same as the day of its creation: Renzo Rosso had envisaged a brand that would stand for passion, individuality and self-expression. It is the metamorphosis of the company into a luxury lifestyle brand which is revolutionary. Denim gets a premium image albeit one of ruggedness. The company has seamlessly linked premium lifestyle to its denim. This journey of metamorphosis occured with Diesel s collaboration with some of the most well known names in the world of lifestyle. According to the website, The collections include: Diesel (recently rebooted by the arrival of Nicola Formichetti as its Artistic Director), Diesel Black Gold (the contemporary line designed by Andreas Melbostad) and Diesel Kid. Diesel is not just apparel and denim: it s a lifestyle, which has been interpreted through licenses (under the creative leadership of Andrea Rosso) with leading companies to develop watches and jewellery (with Fossil), eyewear (with Marcolin), fragrances (with L Oréal), helmets (with AGV), headphones (with Monster), bikes (with Pinarello), strollers (with Bugaboo) and a complete home collection (with Foscarini, Moroso, Zucchi, Seletti and Scavolini). Diesel entered India in 2010 as part of a tie up with Reliance Brands. Since then, it has successfully positioned itself in the Indian market. 47 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

50 APPAREL TREND TALES THE PERFECT FIT! WGSN explores new Autumn/Winter 17/18 trends in the knitted jacket menswear category WGSN s category updates provide essential design direction for commercial product development. These are the must-have items for the season, one year ahead of retail. This month, we explore the latest trends around one of the key menswear items for A/W 17/18 the knitted jacket. Elevated cardigans and knitted jackets offer a relaxed alternative to woven outerwear in a wide array of styles from pared-back soft tailored blazers to longer-line voluminous coat-like layers. APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

51 Silhouettes: long-line layers create slouchy silhouettes. Short boxy styles appear woven in clean all-needle structures. Patterns: cables offer textured relief. Pattern spans from crafted jacquard to Fair Isle variations, updating homespun looks. Details: necklines range from authentic shawl collars to sports-led minimalist looks, with zip-through, DB and belted fastenings. Here are some of the emerging styles that we predict to be important for this season: CHUNKY LOOKS Mid to heavy-gauge chunky cardigans have a modern heritage appeal in flecked and mélange yarns. Utilise core shades of warm grey, urban greens and rustic earthy tones. Gradated ombré effects add surface interest, while brushed yarns have a cosy handle in soft-touch chenilles and lofty acrylic blends. Classic styling with button-through fastening, patch pockets and optional elbow patches have a reassuring authenticity. Pared-back styling with edge-to-edge front seams and minimal detailing has a hybrid outerwear look. SHAWL COLLAR Relaxed leisure wear looks are trending, and robe-like cardigan jackets that incorporate shawl-collar necklines offer the ideal layering piece to complement soft jersey tops and joggers. Versatile shades of grey have broad commercial appeal, with warm earthy tones adding a modern heritage feel. Mid-gauge acrylic lofty yarns have the appearance of a heavy knit piece minus the price with flecked yarn and neps adding a cosy appearance. This timeless knit shape feels fresh, thanks to pared-back styling details that include a wrapover front and belted tie waist. Simple t-shirts or roll-neck coordinates create an effortless, yet refined autumn look. BOXY JACKETS Boxy jackets continue to stay popular, with knitted iterations broadening the options. Zip-up versions have a modern retro appeal in clean bomber, Harrington and coach jacket shapes. Plain and textured knitted fabrics offer comfort and versatility in flat clean merino through to more hairy and brushed finishes. Black and indigo are the core, with a fashion element coming from rich seasonal shades of camel, brown and utility green. Details include leather trims and raglan sleeve detail, with relaxed and fitted silhouettes complementing smart and relaxed tailored looks. THE ELONGATED CARDIGAN The classic cardigan is reborn in extended, long-line silhouettes, ranging from thighlength to over-knee. Voluminous proportions and pared-back grunge styling elevate this menswear staple to a key fashion item with street edge. Stripped-back colour usage in mid-greys, washed pink-flesh tones, offwhite, and seasonal tones of rich caramel have a refined urban edge. Solid colour use and tonal outfit dressing offers a refined sportsluxe aesthetic. Laddering adds an authentic well-loved feel. On-trend camouflage and animal-inspired patterns have youth appeal. COLOUR BLOCKED Blocked and panelled fronts on knitted cardigan jackets take inspiration from retro micro-check and geometric allovers. 1950s-style front panels are offset by solid-colour arms and trims while tipping. Collegiate armbands add a youthful edge. Blocked colour placements range from the exploded scales (like Gucci) through to gradated colour tones at asos.com. A fusion of complementary fabrics, like suede and leather, with knitted rib structures (as seen at Brunello Cucinelli) offer an urbanoutdoor feel. For the full trend pack, including more updates to the knitted jacket and images to support your design process, please visit wgsn.com/demo. ALL IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM 49 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

52 APPAREL TRADE TALK T H E C A S H M E R E C H A R I S M A! SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

53 Cashmere is widely coveted as the bre that de nes class and luxury. CHITRA BALASUBRAMANIAM looks at the trade revolving around the highly endorsed king of all bres. Cashmere, the most luxurious of fibres is amongst the most wanted, around the world. There have been inventions, discoveries and innovations in fibres and fabrics, but cashmere has stood the test of time to emerge triumphant as the king of all fibres. To summarise, Cashmere represents class and luxury, at its best. The Pashmina from India which is known the world over as cashmere gets its popular name from Kashmir, where it was woven. Quoting from the data on the website The only source of true cashmere is the Kashmir goat (Capra Hircus Laniger), which is native to the Europe. The Pashmina shawls of Kashmir have been known the world over for their finesse, soft feel and intricate work. The colours, the texture and the embroidery were so unique that it was a huge export earner. So much so, that Emperor Napoleon s wife was so besotted with them that she ordered them by the dozens and started a fashion for these shawls in The 700-odd years of history of the shawls from Kashmir span four periods comprising the Mughals, Afghans, Dogras and Sikhs. THE INDIAN CONNECT PASHMINA It is sad that despite having a history to speak about a history spanning 700 years and Himalayas. Its fine undercoat hair is collected by either combing or shearing during the spring moulting season. After sorting and scouring, the fibres are cleaned of coarse outer hairs. The annual yield of down from this process averages to around 150g, per animal. Indian history of this glorious fibre and its shawls is full of tales of how it started a craze in having cashmere's purest goat breed in the world, India s place in the cashmere trade leaves nothing significant to speak or write about. India is nowhere in the picture in the international market when it comes to cashmere or Pashmina production. It is still bought with a romantic notion of hand-woven, skilled weaving, of buying the 51 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

54 APPAREL TRADE TALK crowning glory piece from India. However, in the international market, the Indian contribution (except for a fleeting mention) is never truly considered when cashmere is discussed. The world production of cashmere wool is controlled by and comes from China and Inner Mongolia. As the website puts it, The world s annual production of coarse cashmere is estimated at 15,000 to 20,000 tonnes 6,500 tonnes of pure cashmere after scouring and hair removal. China's output is estimated at 10,000 tonnes, followed by Mongolia (3,000 tonnes). While most of China's production is shipped to fabric and garment makers in Italy, Japan and the UK, the Chinese textile industry has also begun to make cashmere garments for export. CASHMERE WORLDWIDE Given the rich earnings, cashmere goats are bred all over in the UK, Australia and USA. According to the website, The US standards set an average fibre diameter for cashmere of no more than 19 microns the top quality fibre is just 14 microns. It has natural crimp, allowing it to be spun into fine, lightweight fabrics. Cashmere has small air spaces between the fibres, allowing it to maintain warmth without the heavy weight. Thin cuticle cells on the fibre surface make it smooth and lustrous. Thus, several fibres are classified as cashmere. However, the best and the finest are said to be the Himalayan ones. The biggest consumers are USA, Italy, UK and Japan. After the fibre separation, it is ready to be shipped to spinners, weavers and knitters around the world, the website states. For many years the four traditional, primary markets for cashmere production had been the USA, Europe (UK and Italy), Japan and China, itself. The finished products were consumed mostly in the first three markets mentioned, with China consuming smaller amounts of its own finished goods production. India is barely mentioned anywhere, neither in the production of the fibre, nor in the yarn or even in finished products. It is controlled in Europe and USA. Some of the finest spinning mills of cashmere yarns are located in the UK, Indian pashmina shawls or products are still the traditional woven ones with embroidery or kani shawls. Internationally, the production of cashmere apparel moves in with the dictates of fashion. So, spinning mills launch their collection every spring/summer and autumn/winter. There is product innovation, development, design and value addition. The name of the game is innovation and novelty. Try this, Todd & Duncan, Spring/Summer 2016 collection pure cashmere yarn boasts of a range of 36 colours. The colours are keeping in with what has been forecasted by the colour for the year. There are several kinds of cashmere yarn cashmere silk, cashmere cotton and cashmere lurex. One can play with the yarn s weight, one can play with it to make it look like denim or give it that rugged, slub look. It is this innovative use of cashmere s changing qualities which makes the spinner of the yarn so effective. SHUTTERSTOCK.COM APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

55 53 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016 CASHMERE AND TRADE There are also special trend forecasts for cashmere, everywhere. The trade is so significant and valuable that it gave rise to cashmere World a trade fair for cashmere which is organised every year in Hong Kong. Cashmere World is a fair held to bring together the players involved with cashmere. It is a vertically integrated business platform for the international cashmere trade. Like all trade fairs it also releases colour and trend forecast. Next winter will definitely be colourful! Thus, even the dreary winter weather will be unable to dampen our spirits. Bright shades of Bordeaux, blue and green will dominate next winter, predicts the website Teamed with the equally trendy earth tones, these colours spread a degree of warmth and thus create the fashionable contrast programme to the snow and ice so prevalent in Europe and the US. Not only that Umbria in Italy, boasts of its own Cashmere Valley. The central region in Umbria, between Lake Trasimeno and Perugia, is home to over 500 companies which are involved in the production of Cashmere. The area is a tourism garner, a traveller and shopper s delight with some excellent places to shop for cashmere. Some of the top names in the field of Cashmere include: Loro Pianna Cashmere the largest manufacturer of cashmere in the world and the single largest purchaser of this luxury wool. Brunello Cucinelli S p A a luxury manufacturer who specialises in cashmere.

56 APPAREL TRADE TALK Their line of cashmere fabric and clothing is legendary amongst the connoisseurs. Most of the players in the field are in the business of making luxury goods. The cashmere industry world over is sophisticated and very well organised. Compared to this, the Indian Pashmina industry is still in its nascent stage. Much needs to be done to reach that level of sophistication and competition. INDIA S FUTURE IN CASHMERE The Government of India has announced a policy to breed Pashmina Goats in the Changtang Region. India produces the finest Pashmina wool in the world, coming from the Changthang plateau of Ladakh region of J&K State. Pashmina wool is produced by the Changra (Pashmina) goat in Ladakh and Chegu breed of goat in the eastern parts of Himalayas. There are 2.45 lakh goats (two lakh Changra & Malra goats which produce Pashmina) in Ladakh, many local, Non-Pashmina goats are also found (nearly 45,000) which come from the same larger genetic pool and contribute little to the total Pashmina production of the region. The Scheme for Pashmina Wool Development is designed to make a meaningful intervention given the potential of this area to produce fine quality Pashmina. During the 12th Plan a special package with a total financial provision of R41.21 crore was introduced to undertake research and development work for development of Pashmina wool. Some of the measures include, To increase the income from Pashmina, wool of the goat breeders and sustain their interest in this activity as a reliable means of livelihood. To strengthen the existing Pashmina Dehairing Plant at Leh. To increase Pashmina population growth rate from present two per cent per annum (in the last 10 years) to five per cent per annum with Pashmina population of three lakhs at the end of 12th Plan SHUTTERSTOCK.COM APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

57 APPAREL MINISTRY NOTIFICATION MERCHANDISE EXPORTS FROM INDIA SCHEME (MEIS) ADDITIONS AND AMENDMENTS IN TABLE 2 [CONTAINING ITC (HS) CODE WISE LIST OF PRODUCTS WITH REWARD RATES] OF APPENDIX 3B. Directorate General of Foreign Trade, in its Public Notice No 32/ dated September 22, 2016, has increased the reward rate of five items of RMG (Chapter 61 and 62) from two per cent to three per cent under the MEIS scheme. The five items are given below:- S. No. ITC(HS) Code Description Existing Rate New Rate JACKETS OF COTTON SHAWLS, SCARVES, MUFFLERS, ETC., OF 2 3 MAN-MADE FIBRES SCARVES OF SILK MEASURING 60 CM/LESS, 2 3 HAND PRINTED SCARVES OF WOOL ODHNI, COTTON,WHITE BLEACHED 2 3 For more information, follow the link: 55 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

58 APPAREL AEPC NOTIFICATIONS SEMINAR ON FASHION FORECAST AUTUMN/WINTER AND SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Dear Sir/Madam, We are extremely pleased to inform you that the AEPC, under the export promotion programmes, is once again organising Fashion Forecast, in association with WGSN, during the month of November The schedule and programme of the seminars is given below: Seminar schedule DATE DAY SEMINAR SCHEDULE CITY November 21, 2016 Monday Afternoon Session Jaipur November 22, 2016 Tuesday Morning Session Gurugram (Gurgaon) November 24, 2016 Thursday Morning Session Tirupur November 25, 2016 Friday Morning Session Mumbai You are requested to kindly block your date and attend the seminar in order to update yourself about Autumn/Winter and Spring/Summer 2018 and beyond fashion trends. WHO SHOULD ATTEND? Sr. Merchandisers/Team of Fashion Designing Departments, Fashion Designers including Freelancers, Industry associates, Market Consultants/Consultancy bodies, Fashion Institutes/Students, Manufacturers, buyers/planners, retailers & brand promoters, etc. REGISTRATION FEES The participation/registration fee is R1,150 per person (R1,000 + R150 service tax). We look forward to receiving your nomination. With Best Regards, (Sneh Lata Sharma) Jt. Director (F&E) Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) Tel: / ; Mobile: APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

59 SUBJECT: i. Encouraging response to ATDC-SMART Inside initiative ii. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) of skills of the existing workforce in Apparel factories Dear Friends and Colleagues, In response to my letter dated April 25, 2016, regarding the ATDC-SMART Inside Skill Training project initiative by the ATDC under the Integrated Skill Development Scheme (ISDS) of MoT, GoI, more than 10 ATDC-SMART Training Cells have already been set up, and I may, once again, call upon fellow exporters to come forward to join hands with the ATDC to meet your skill training needs. I am happy to inform you that the ATDC is launching yet another industry initiative to provide Assessment and Certification for your existing labour workforce under the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) system of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, GoI. Under the RPL scheme, the existing skills of workers in your apparel manufacturing units would be first mapped. Thereafter, a 12-hour top-up programme for Domain training, Soft & Basic Skills and Familiarisation with Assessment Process will be offered free of cost; and the Assessment and Certification will be carried out for appropriate level of National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF). This will not only provide a big morale booster to your employees but also act as a major step towards Compliance. If needed, 60 hours of intensive training would also be offered to upgrade domain knowledge and soft-skills. The skills of existing workforce would be assessed after the above intervention by third party Assessing Bodies. Based on NSQF, job roles (NOS) and Certificates would be issued by MSDE, GoI & AMH-SSC for appropriate level of skills along with a token honorarium of R500/- per worker/beneficiary directly to the bank account. The Organisation/ Factories or the beneficiary do not have to make any payment or contribute towards expenditure. The RPL process is free of cost to both the factory and the candidates certified. The ATDC will further offer training opportunities to get advanced training at a discounted training fee to help in career progression of aspirants among your staff. I would like to take this opportunity to invite you, as a leading Apparel Exporter, to avail of this very significant service to upskill and certify the workforce and work actively with the nearest ATDC centres to get your workforce trained & certified under MSDE s RPL scheme. I am sure that day is not far when your organisation will be proud to have a 100 per cent trained/certified workforce to be not only globally competitive, but also do your part to be a socially responsible business enterprise. For assistance to take this forward do contact Mr Gopal Bhasin G M (SMART), (Advisor, RPL Scheme) (Mob: , gopal.bhasin@atdcindia.co.in) or Mr Rajesh Masiwal, (Mob: , rajeshmasiwal@atdcindia.co.in). In the case of need for escalation, don t hesitate to contact Dr Darlie Koshy, DG & CEO ( koshy@atdcindia.co.in, Ph: ) and mark a copy to me. With best wishes, Yours sincerely, Ashok G. Rajani 57 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

60 APPAREL FASHION CALENDAR FAIRS ACROSS THE WORLD Greensboro Coliseum Complex HKTDC Hong Kong Fashion Week for Fall/Winter Women s Fair Wichita Nov 25-27, 2016 Jan 16-19, 2017 Apparel and Clothing Apparel and Clothing Apparel and Clothing USA USA Hong Kong Clothes Show Dec 2-6, 2016 Apparel and Clothing UK Feb 17-19, 2017 CPM Collection Premiere Moscow Green Showroom Jan 17-19, 2017 Feb 20-23, 2017 Apparel and Clothing Apparel and Clothing Berlin, Germany Moscow, Russia Gallery Düsseldorf Blossom Première Vision Dec 13-14, 2016 Apparel and Clothing Paris, France Jan 27-30, 2017 Houstex Expo Apparel and Clothing Feb 28-Mar 2, 2017 Düsseldorf, Germany Apparel and Clothing USA CIFF Feb 1-3, 2017 Parousies Apparel and Clothing Jan 11-15, 2017 Copenhagen, Denmark Apparel and Clothing Greece Paris SUR MODE Mar 3-6, 2017 Apparel and Clothing Avanprint Paris, France Feb 6-8, 2017 TrauDich! - Stuttgart Apparel and Clothing Textyle Expo Jan 14-15, 2017 Paris, France Apr 2-5, 2017 Germany Apparel and Clothing Asia Apparel Expo Berlin Oran, Algeria Feb 14-16, 2017 Apparel and Clothing Traffic Berlin, Germany Apr 5-6, 2017 Apparel and Clothing Paris, France Techtextil Frankfurt May 9-12, 2017 ALL IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM Apparel and Clothing Apparel and Clothing Germany AP PA REL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOV EM BER

61 59 APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016

62 APPAREL AEPC EVENTS CALENDAR The proposed Export Promotion Events up to March NOVEMBER, 2016 International Apparel and Textile Fair, World Trade Centre, Dubai, November 14-15, 2016 (No MDA/MAI grant) NOVEMBER, MARCH 4 DECEMBER 2016 Export Awards December 2016 MARCH 2017 NOVEMBER Fashion Forecast Seminars (1st Phase), November Buyer Seller Meet at Montevideo, Uruguay and Santiago, Chile, March 2017 (Under MAI JANUARY 2017 Hong Kong Fashion Week, Hong Kong, January 2017 (Under MAI Scheme) International Sourcing Expo Australia (ISEA), Melbourne, Australia, November 15-17, 2016 (Under MAI Scheme) JANUARY India International Fair, January 2017 (Under MAI Scheme) 2017 Scheme) Buyer Seller Meet at Dubai, UAE, March 2017 (Under MAI Scheme) APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL MAGAZINE NOVEMBER

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64 RNI No. HARENG/2012/45083 Postal Regn. No. GRG/37/ Fashion Forecast Seminars Autumn/Winter 2017/18 Spring/Summer 2018 Collection WGSN trendtalk AEPC invites you to 3rd year of Seminar Series along with WGSN, the world s leading trend forecaster. Come experience the intelligence and inspiration as an WGSN Expert travels to a city near you to share research and forecasts produced by WGSN s 450+ experts. SEMINAR DETAILS Date City Venue November 21 Jaipur Hotel Radisson Blu November 22 Gurgaon Apparel House (Exhibition hall A ) November 24 Tirupur Hotel Poppys November 25 Mumbai Indian Merchant Chamber SPEAKER Kim Mannino, Head of WGSN Live, London PROGRAMME Trend directions for Autumn/Winter 2017/18 Spring/Summer 2018 Collection and Beyond Key shapes, silhouettes, materials and colours for Womenswear, Menswear, Denim, Knitwear, Kidswear & Soft Accessories. Representative sample showcase. For further details, please contact: Ms Sneh Lata Sharma, Jt. Director Tel: E.: slsharma@aepcindia.com Ms. Sushil Ahuja, PS Tel: E.: sushil@aepcindia.com Participation Fee per participant Rs.1150/- (Rs. 1000/- + Rs. 150/- service tax)