The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) is set to roll out a comprehensive “Certificate Program on Sustainability” which will take place for 12 weeks. Tailored for MSMEs, this initiative aims to foster sustainability practices, addressing buyers’ increasing concerns about issues such as zero liquid discharge, renewable energy, water management, and wastewater management.
Naren Goenka, Chairman AEPC, highlighted the organisation’s commitment to promoting sustainability during the 44th Annual General Meeting held in a hybrid format.
Mithileshwar Thakur, Secretary General AEPC, discussed the determination of the Ready-Made Garments (RMG) sector in the face of global challenges. “Challenges still continue and are getting severe and worse. The world is witnessing two wars and inflationary pressure all across the globe and realignment of its value chain.”
Speaking at the AGM, Goenka highlighted the Indian apparel industry’s strong performance, claiming a 30.35per cent increase in exports in 2021-22 over the previous year. AEPC’s crucial role in supporting the industry’s global outreach was recognised, with plans to elevate India’s apparel exports from US $ 16-17 billion to US $ 40 billion by 2030.
Goenka outlined key strategies, including enhancing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to boost economies of scale, focusing on innovation for cost-cutting and expediting clearances, expanding market and product offerings, adopting a cluster-based model, and fostering strategic partnerships.
