Perth, February 17 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Strengthening trade links between India and Western Australia’s fashion and textile sectors was the focus of an International Business Discussion jointly organised by the Consulate General of India in Perth and the International Business Council of Australia (IBCA).
The event explored the theme, “The Potential of India’s Apparel, Textile and Handloom Industries in the Australian Market,” bringing together exporters, importers, policymakers and industry stakeholders. Acting Vice President of IBCA Shibli Khan opened the session with a welcome address, while IBCA President Dr Dilawar Singh provided an overview of the organisation’s work and its role in fostering business connections.
India’s Consul General in Perth, Kajari Biswas, delivered the keynote address, emphasising the opportunities for deeper collaboration in textiles and apparel between India and Western Australia. She highlighted how growing demand for diverse fashion products and sustainable manufacturing practices could open new pathways for bilateral trade and innovation.
The discussion featured a series of expert presentations from industry representatives. TEXPROCIL – The Cotton Textiles Export Promotion Council of India joined virtually to outline export prospects, while Shailesh Martis, Additional Director at the Handloom Export Promotion Council (HEPC), spoke about India’s rich handloom heritage and its global market potential. Dr M Sundar, Joint Director, also shared insights into industry development and emerging trends.
Local perspectives added depth to the dialogue, with Carol Hanlon, Chief Executive Officer of the Textile Clothing Footwear Resource Centre WA Inc. (TCFWA), discussing sustainability initiatives and the outcomes of trade missions to India. Harish Kukadia, Director of Rani Veda Indian Wear Boutique in Perth, offered the viewpoint of an importer, highlighting consumer demand and the challenges of operating within the Australian retail landscape.
Participants included representatives involved in clothing recycling, exports, importing and fashion incubation, making the session a broad platform for networking and knowledge exchange. Organisers said the forum underscored the importance of collaboration in strengthening economic ties and promoting innovation across the apparel, textile and handloom sectors.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by IBCA Treasurer Avinash Dhalia, who acknowledged the contributions of speakers and attendees and expressed optimism about future business partnerships between India and Western Australia.
