CMAI launches curtain raiser for India’s largest apparel show in the Middle East

Dubai, September 15, 2023 – The Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI) has taken a significant leap onto the global stage by introducing the “Brands of India” initiative in Dubai. Scheduled for November 27th and 28th, 2023, at the Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC), this event aims to spotlight Indian products’ excellence, innovation, and quality on an international platform.

In his address, CMAI President Mr. Rajesh Masand underscored the significance of promoting Indian brands overseas, emphasizing the need to safeguard and promote these brands to garner global recognition for India’s capabilities and creativity. He highlighted Dubai’s strategic location and global prominence as a perfect platform for this venture.

“The ‘Brands of India’ initiative by CMAI serves to showcase India’s most prominent apparel brands on the international stage,” said Rajesh Masand, President of CMAI. Additionally, he highlighted the promising prospects offered by the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in the UAE, facilitating the growth of Indian apparel brands in this dynamic market.

Dubai, chosen as the inaugural destination for the first international government fair outside India, brings several advantages, including a sizable Indian diaspora, aligned fashion tastes, and a robust trade partnership. With 8% of Indian apparel exports routed to the UAE, the nation also serves as a gateway to Africa and Europe.

Ambassador of India to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, stressed the critical importance of strengthening global value chains and resilient trade routes, particularly in light of vulnerabilities revealed during the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlighted the groundbreaking nature of the “Brands of India” initiative, a collaborative effort with several countries including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, the US, Germany, France, Italy, and the EU. This initiative aims to establish a new trade corridor encompassing shipping and railways across the Middle East, ensuring trade route stability and resilience for the future.

The “Brands of India” initiative aligns with the Indian government’s vision of the “5F” strategy, covering “Farm to Fiber to Factory to Fashion” and extending to “Fashion to Foreign,” emphasizing India’s strengths in the fashion and textile sector. It also complements efforts to bolster global value chains and secure supply routes, reducing vulnerabilities exposed during recent global disruptions.

The CMAI event plans to feature 250 Indian brands under one roof, offering a unique opportunity for global exposure. It seeks to leverage the momentum generated by the “Make in India” initiative, which concentrates on promoting domestic manufacturing and innovation. Furthermore, this event is poised to become the largest apparel exhibition representing India in the MENA region.

The launch event in Dubai has received enthusiastic support from various stakeholders, including the Lulu Group, a significant importer of high-quality Indian apparel for its UAE hypermarkets. With the UAE being India’s third-largest trading partner, trade relations have witnessed substantial growth, with exports reaching approximately $85 million in the previous year.

Indian brands are increasingly recognized for their innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility, aligning with India’s commitment to creating a positive impact on society and the environment. The “Brands of India” showcase by CMAI is expected to further elevate India’s standing as a global leader in the fashion and textile industry.