Experts Say: Time to Think ‘Out of the Box’ Beyond Traditional Textiles, Vast Potential for Surat in Technical Textiles

Surat. The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) and the Indian Technical Textile Association (ITTA) organized the ‘Technical Textiles Conclave 2026’ at the UKM Hall in Sarsana.

Based on the theme ‘Innovation in Textiles for a Smarter Tomorrow’, the conclave saw experts from across the country inspire Surat’s textile industrialists to adopt modern and future-oriented business models.

The event featured detailed discussions on the growing global importance of technical textiles, new technologies, government policies, and the future of the industry. Experts stated that the demand for technical textiles is continuously increasing in sectors such as defense, medical, construction, sports, and infrastructure, presenting a significant opportunity for Surat.

The Chamber’s Vice President and President (Elect) said that the use of technical textiles is rapidly increasing worldwide. He noted that due to the Indian government’s National Mission, this sector will make the Indian industry competitive globally. He urged industrialists to move beyond traditional textiles and enter this innovative sector.

The Vice Chairman of ITTA said that the country’s MSME sector must now advance from polymers to high-performance fibers. Meanwhile, a former Additional Textile Commissioner stated that about 80 percent of technical textiles use man-made fiber (MMF), which is a golden opportunity for Surat’s industrialists.

He said that if India achieves success in producing high-end performance yarn, the country could lead globally in the field of technical textiles. He advised industrialists to think “out of the box” and diversify towards technical textiles over the next 5 to 10 years.

The General Manager and Joint Commissioner of Industries at DIC explained that Gujarat’s textile policy gives special priority to technical textiles. He informed industrialists about schemes such as capital subsidy, power subsidy, and interest subsidy.

He also stated that industries adopting renewable energy will receive additional benefits, and considering global standards like the European Union’s carbon tax in the future, industries will need to upgrade their processes.

During the conclave, four special technical sessions were held, in which industry experts gave presentations on different topics.

The Diversification Strategy session discussed value-added technical textiles.
The Defense Application session held a panel discussion on the needs of technical textiles in the defense sector.
The Geotextiles and Building Textiles session provided information on sustainable development and infrastructure use.
The Sportech and Standardization session discussed sports textiles and quality standards.

At the end of the event, the Director of ITTA and the Executive Director expressed gratitude to the attending guests, experts, and industrialists. A large number of textile industrialists from Surat and South Gujarat were present at the conclave.

Surat

Surat is a historic port city in the Indian state of Gujarat, renowned for its significant role in global trade during the Mughal era. It was a major center for diamond cutting and the export of textiles, spices, and silk, attracting merchants from Europe and Asia. Today, Surat remains a thriving commercial hub, known for its diamond industry and vibrant cultural heritage.

Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI)

The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI), based in Surat, is a prominent trade body established in 1950 to promote business and industrial growth in the region. It has played a key role in facilitating trade, networking, and policy advocacy for various industries, including textiles and diamonds. Over the decades, SGCCI has become a vital platform for economic development in southern Gujarat.

Indian Technical Textile Association (ITTA)

The Indian Technical Textile Association (ITTA) is a premier industry body established to promote and develop the technical textiles sector in India. Founded in 2015 under the aegis of the Ministry of Textiles, it serves as a platform for stakeholders including manufacturers, researchers, and policymakers. The association plays a key role in fostering innovation, setting standards, and enhancing India’s competitiveness in the global technical textiles market.

UKM Hall in Sarsana

UKM Hall in Sarsana is a notable cultural and community venue located in the state of Gujarat, India. It has historically served as a gathering space for local events, performances, and social functions, reflecting the region’s vibrant traditions. The hall is part of the broader Sarsana area, which has roots in rural Gujarati culture and community life.