India’s garment, textile and denim manufacturing industries are strengthening their manufacturing capabilities through technology adoption, advanced production systems and process optimisation to remain globally competitive. Reflecting this transformation, as Gartex Texprocess India incorporating the Denim Show returns to Bharat Mandapam from 6–8 August 2026, we spoke with Mr Raj Manek, Executive Director & Board Member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd., to discuss the evolving landscape of the industry, and the opportunities shaping the future of textile and apparel manufacturing.
Gartex Texprocess India has grown significantly over the years. What makes the 2026 edition the biggest and most important edition yet?
Gartex Texprocess India, incorporating Denim Show, has evolved significantly from a focused sourcing platform into one of India’s most comprehensive exhibitions for garment and textile manufacturing, showcasing denim innovations. The 2026 edition is bringing together over 190 exhibitors, more than 700 brands, and over 1,200 product solutions spread across three halls spanning 14,850 sqm gross area. We are glad to share that 40+ exhibitors are participating in the show for the very first time. Besides, this year the show is presenting international participation from China, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Taiwan, Turkey and Singapore. Beyond the scale, at this edition the exhibitors are presenting an advanced range of textile technologies, textile machinery, fabrics, inks, denim collections, washing technologies for textiles, trims and accessories and several other products that are upcoming in the industry. This reflects the confidence that the industry has placed in Gartex Texprocess India as a business platform that delivers meaningful networking, technology adoption and long-term growth opportunities.
India is rapidly emerging as a global textile and apparel manufacturing hub. How do you see Gartex Texprocess India contributing to this transformation
India is entering a defining phase in its textile manufacturing journey. With supportive government initiatives, increasing investments in infrastructure, production-linked incentives, the PM-MITRA parks and growing global sourcing diversification, the country is well positioned to strengthen its role in international supply chains. Gartex Texprocess India complements this momentum by bringing together technology providers, machinery manufacturers, material suppliers and apparel producers on a single platform. It enables businesses to discover advanced manufacturing solutions, improve productivity, enhance quality and adopt globally competitive practices. Equally important, the exhibition facilitates knowledge exchange through industry-led conferences and interactions that address evolving market demands. As India expands its manufacturing capabilities and strengthens trade relationships through agreements such as the India-UK Free Trade Agreement and ongoing discussions with the European Union, platforms like Gartex Texprocess India have become increasingly important in helping manufacturers prepare for higher quality standards, efficiency and export competitiveness.
Technology and automation are becoming critical for manufacturers. What are some of the key innovations visitors can expect to see at this year's exhibition?
(Manufacturing today is increasingly driven by speed, precision and intelligent automation, and this year’s exhibition reflects that transition. Visitors will experience a wide spectrum of advanced technologies spanning cutting, sewing, embroidery, digital textile printing, garment finishing, washing, dyeing, textile processing, automation systems and more. The show further highlights innovations from the denim industry under Denim Show, where participants will showcase the latest collections, finishes, dyes, trims, accessories and other value-added solutions. What distinguishes this edition is that visitors can experience complete manufacturing ecosystems rather than individual machines, enabling them to evaluate integrated solutions that support productivity, flexibility and long-term business competitiveness.
What role do international collaborations and technology partnerships play in accelerating innovation within India's textile and garment manufacturing industry?
Innovation today is increasingly driven through collaboration rather than operating in isolation. International technology partnerships enable Indian manufacturers to access advanced machinery, global manufacturing expertise and best practices that accelerate productivity and product quality. At the same time, they create opportunities for overseas companies to understand India’s rapidly expanding manufacturing ecosystem better and collaborate with local businesses. Gartex Texprocess India provides a platform where these interactions happen naturally by bringing together exhibitors and visitors from multiple countries under one roof. Such exchanges encourage technology transfer, joint ventures, distribution partnerships and long-term business relationships. As global supply chains continue to diversify, these collaborations will become even more important in strengthening India’s position as a preferred manufacturing destination while enabling domestic companies to remain globally competitive through continuous innovation and technological advancements.
With sustainability becoming a global priority, how are exhibitors addressing the demand for eco-friendly manufacturing processes, resource efficiency, and circular production?
Sustainability has moved beyond being a compliance requirement and is now a strategic business priority for manufacturers worldwide. Across the exhibition, exhibitors are presenting technologies designed to reduce water consumption, lower energy usage, minimise chemical inputs and improve production efficiency. Visitors will also see innovations in sustainable dyeing and finishing as well as machinery that supports responsible manufacturing practices. Increasingly, manufacturers are investing in solutions that enable traceability, resource optimisation and circular production while meeting the sustainability expectations of international buyers and brands. These developments are particularly important as export markets continue to strengthen environmental standards. Gartex Texprocess India provides manufacturers with direct access to technologies and expertise that can help them transition towards more sustainable, efficient and globally compliant manufacturing operations.
What key trends do you believe will define the future of garment and textile manufacturing over the next five years?
The next phase of textile manufacturing will be defined by intelligent automation, digitalisation, sustainability and greater supply chain resilience. Manufacturers will increasingly adopt AI-driven production planning, smart factories, predictive maintenance and connected manufacturing systems that improve efficiency and responsiveness. Sustainability will continue to influence every stage of production, from raw material sourcing to recycling and circular manufacturing models. At the same time, faster product development, greater customisation and shorter production cycles will become essential as consumer demand evolves. India also stands to benefit from shifting global sourcing strategies and stronger international trade partnerships, creating new opportunities for domestic manufacturers to expand exports. Success, however, will depend on continuous investment in technology, workforce skills and innovation. Industry platforms such as Gartex Texprocess India will play an important role in enabling businesses to stay ahead of these changes and remain globally competitive.
