News DeskDubai, UAE – Following the impressive success of its first edition, The Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI) is all set to host the second edition of the ‘Brands of India’ trade show, from November 12 to 14, 2024, at Za’abeel Hall 4, Dubai World Trade Centre. This landmark event, which promotes Indian apparel manufacturers, is organized with support from India’s Ministry of Textiles, Embassy of India in UAE, and several prominent industry bodies including Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), Noida Apparel Export Cluster (NAEC), TEXMAS (Dubai), and Dubai’s Readymade Garments Merchants Group.
This year’s edition promises to be even larger, with over 150 brands and white-label manufacturers showcasing a vast array of men’s, women’s, and children’s fashion including casuals, ethnic wear, formals, denim, athleisure, winter wear, sleepwear, and more. Retailers, wholesalers, agents, and other major players in the apparel industry from around the globe are anticipated to attend, making it an unparalleled sourcing event in the region.
Key buyers expected include leading Middle Eastern retail groups such as Lulu Group, Landmark Group, Al Safeer Group, and R&B, alongside thousands of registered wholesalers and importers from UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, Turkey, South Africa, and other major markets across the globe.
The ‘Brands of India’ event also benefits from the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and UAE, which allows duty-free apparel imports from India. With Indian manufacturers offering high-quality, competitively priced apparel, coupled with efficient logistics and flexible production capabilities, the nation has solidified its role as a prime sourcing hub for international markets.
Anticipation Builds Among Industry Leaders
Santosh Katariya, President of CMAI, expressed his optimism, noting a substantial increase in pre-registrations, which are up by 35% from the previous year. “Total Indian apparel exports are projected to reach US$15 billion in 2024, marking a 5-7% growth over 2023. With CEPA, there’s strong potential for India to grow further in the MENA region, which presents huge business opportunities,” said Katariya.
At the recent pre-show summit held in Mumbai, key representatives from the Middle East and Africa, including prominent names like Peter Raichandani from Profile Trading Co. in Dubai and Anil Gulwani from Toos Trading Co. in Riyadh, gathered to discuss sourcing plans, indicating strong interest in the show. Returning exhibitor Varun Sharma of Arun Varun The Fashion Studio, New Delhi, praised last year’s event for attracting quality buyers and decision-makers, while newcomer Sachin Vora of Red Rose intimates expressed excitement over the opportunity to extend his brand’s reach into new global markets.
Industry Enthusiasm Ahead of the Event
High-profile buyers from the region have voiced enthusiasm about the upcoming trade show. Jaidev Himthani, COO of Smart Baby, Al Safeer Group, acknowledged the convenience of having Indian manufacturers exhibit in Dubai, calling it an excellent platform for exploring new partnerships with India’s specialized apparel hubs. Meanwhile, Jagdish Amarnani, Chairman of TEXMAS, emphasized the appeal of Indian apparel, which resonates strongly with Middle Eastern consumers and satisfies seasonal demand.
The inaugural 2023 edition welcomed 2,800 buyers from 63 countries, with projected business valued at US$ 350 million over the following three years. This year’s ‘Brands of India’ looks set to build on that momentum, creating even greater opportunities for Indian apparel brands and boosting trade ties between India and the international market.
