The autumn/winter edition of Asia’s biggest apparel show, the India International Garment Fair (IIGF) 2019 took place from January 16-18, 2019 at Expo Mart, Greater Noida. The three day fair, presented latest innovations in women’s wear, men’s wear, ki’ds wear, bags, fashion accessories etc. Exhibitors included leading apparel companies from across India.

Optimism in the air

The general mood among exhibitors was positive with most expecting business to pick up in the coming months. “Old time business system has gone and we are looking for new ventures and methods of approaching customers to sell our products,” explained Kaushik Pandya, a visitor. “Overall, exports grew 36 per cent. We grew from about $3.1 billion to $3.7 billion, an encouraging growth indeed,” opined Rahul Mehta, President, CMAI. “There are issues and obstacles related to cooperation between the government and the industry but we look forward to better performance in coming quarters,” he added.

Rooting for GST

Talking about GST refunds, Mehta said, “Investments in an economy do not decline on GST reduction or taxation, rather increase in taxes adversely impacts the taxes. GST has been introduced fairly smoothly. It is still evolving and the government is taking steps to correct mistakes or reroute their paths.” He emphasized the government should refund GST immediately as capital is blocked. Vasant Kumar of YKF brand also agreed GST has made things transparent.

Rigid policies need of hour

Another topic of discussion at the fair was the US-China trade war. Speaking about it Kumar said both countries have negotiated as US cannot survive without China. Only India felt neglected as the benefit that should have been given to India has been taken away by Vietnam and Bangladesh. There have to be rigid policies irrespective of the government only then we can move ahead.”