Ludhiana: In a strategic move to bolster the city’s prominent textile and knitwear sector, the textiles committee under the ministry of textiles has announced the establishment of a Textile Export Facilitation Centre (TEFC) in Ludhiana. Selected on a pilot basis, Ludhiana will specifically cater to wool, woollen, and knitted articles, joining a handful of other specialised clusters across India—including Surat for technical textiles and Varanasi for carpets—aimed at enhancing the global competitiveness of Indian exporters. The centre, which will operate under the Export Promotion and Quality Assurance (EP&QA) division, is designed to provide essential institutional support, ensuring that local manufacturers no longer need to rely on distant offices for critical certifications or compliance guidance.Bridging the gap for MSMEsThe TEFC is set to offer a comprehensive suite of services, including capacity-building programs, guidance on HS classification, and clarity on export-import tariffs. Crucially, it will provide insights into free trade agreements (FTAs) and assist domestic manufacturers in navigating the complex technical and non-technical regulations of various international markets. By disseminating information on government schemes and helping units develop export roadmaps, the centre aims to bridge the gap for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) that often lack the in-house expertise required for global documentation and evolving standards.Industry leaders have hailed the initiative as a timely intervention amidst fluctuating global demand and rising international competition. Vinod Thapar, chairman of the Knitwear Club, noted that the centre will play a vital role in preparing units for emerging regulatory frameworks concerning sustainability and traceability, which are increasingly demanded by global buyers. Meanwhile, Sudharshan Jain, Executive Member of the Knitwear Club, emphasised the untapped potential of the hosiery industry. He pointed out that while summer garments dominate current exports, there is nearly three times more potential in winterwear exports that could be unlocked through FTAs and proactive government facilitation, leading to significant revenue and large-scale employment generation.Local manufacturers, including Simarjit Singh, believe the TEFC will serve as a guiding light for those currently limited to the domestic market. By promoting best practices and encouraging the exploration of new international destinations, the centre is expected to streamline the export process and empower Ludhiana’s manufacturers to upgrade their operations. As the industry faces a shift toward more stringent environmental and social standards, this structured advisory support is viewed as a necessary foundation for Ludhiana to retain its status as a major contributor to India’s textile export economy.
