Under the leadership of Dr. A Sakthivel, Chairman AEPC, a delegation of 30 garment exporters participated in the three day Australia International Sourcing Fair (AISF) at Melbourne.
The Indian pavilion was inaugurated by the Counsel General, CGI India, Ms. Manika Jain, at Melbourne, Australia on 13th November 2013, in presence of Chairman AEPC, delegates and buyers from Australia. The AISF is the only textile and clothing exhibition for the Australia and New Zealand region. The fair was from 13th -15th November 2013.
Speaking on the inauguration Chairman AEPC, Dr A Sakthivel stated that, “Australia is the focus country for us, considering that India and Australia are at an advanced stage of negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement and also the Australian buyers wanting to reduce their over dependence on China, this Fair provides the right opportunity for the Indian exporters to tap into the Australian clothing market.
"We the third largest exporter of garment to Australia and has all the potential to boost the business further.” Garment exports must take advantage to tap this huge US $ 5.61 billion Australian apparel market. India’s apparel exports to Australia in 2012 were around US $ 111 million, he added.
Dr. Sakthivel informed that, “India’s garment industry has its inherent strengths in terms of good design and raw material strength, all big brands and chain stores are sourcing from India.
It’s the most preferred destination for brands like Zara, Gap, H & M, Mango, Elcorte, Desigual, Tommy Hilfiger, etc. Prominent chain stores like Walmart, C&N, H & M, JC Penny, Target, Sears, Marks & Spencers, H&M, Debenham, Primark, Top Mom, TESCO, etc are sourcing garment from India. India is also very good in producing sports items and we can deliver goods in short lead time.” Our exhibitors here would be displaying high fashion ladies garments, scarfs, beach wears, men’s wear, denim, etc. Buyers may like to buy from them.
Chairman AEPC invited the Australian buyers for the Tex Trends India, a clothing show, to he held between 20th - 22nd January 2014; at New Delhi. “I appeal to the interested participants to come and participate in the Tex Trends. Buyers from Australia are invited to source garments from India. The foundations of India’s business are built on exceptional customer service, respect and integrity in the pursuit of mutually profitable outcomes.”
Chairman AEPC commented that, I am happy to share that India’s apparel sector participation in this Fair has risen by 6 times in the garment sector. Hope we continue to do well and expand our reach and service to Australian buyers. We will be organizing 13 nos. of International export promotion events in Japan, Brazil, Colombia, USA, Hong Kong, Israel, France, Spain, Australia, Chile & Uruguay, South Africa, etc. during the financial year 2013-14. As part of our international business outreach and trade promotion AEPC have signed MoU’s with Russia, Spain, Israel and Mauritius.
Exhibiting at the 'Brand India' pavilion in AISF gave an opportunity to place our business in front of thousands of qualified visitors including department stores, retail chains, importers, wholesalers, brand-owners, designers and agents. The business turnout in this fair was good as per the provisional estimates.
