The Apparel Industry Sustainability Action (AISA) 2022-23, launched by India’s Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), aims to “encourage textile companies which are working with sustainability,” according to a report by Fibre2Fashion.

More specifically, the AEPC (the official body for apparel exporters in India) hopes to address concerns about the environment and economy in India. According to JustStyle, the action intends to:

  • Evaluate the existing garment industry in India
  • Enhance the visibility of sustainable brands/companies globally
  • Produce policy needed for further adoption of sustainable measures within Indian garment manufacturing facilities

The action was announced on Nov. 2 at the Apparel House in Gurugram, India, a hub for international apparel trade.

As reported by Business Dunia, a New Delhi media company, there were several prominent global apparel brands, buying agents, and leaders in attendance, including, but not limited to:

  • PVH
  • Target
  • KGFabricks
  • ZDHC
  • Fashion for Good, Netherlands
  • Prajakta Verma, Joint Secretary Ministry of Textiles, Government of India
  • Roop Rashi Mahapatra, Textile Commissioner, Government of India
  • Sudhir Sekhri, Vice Chairman, AEPC
  • Gautam Nair, Chairman, Export Promotion, AEPC

AEPC Chairman Naren Goenka spoke on the launch, stating, “As we all know the global garment production is forecasted to increase by 63% by 2030. This spectacular growth brings with it an ever-growing global concern on the detrimental impact that this fashion industry brings as it is one of the most resource-intensive industries. Also, considering the growing consumer awareness on sustainability and the gaps in the global markets, it is a dire need for the Indian apparel industry to dig deeper into the subject.”

Fibre2Fashion notes that the AEPC will bolster sustainable companies by showcasing them on a dedicated social media platform, culminating in Sustainability Awards. The award-winning companies will then have the chance to showcase their collections at Pure London 2023 and Who’s Next, Paris, 2023.

During the meeting, Goenka also noted the Indian government’s proactiveness in announcing various export promotion initiatives and signing various free trade agreements with UAE, Australia, the U.K., and Canada. According to Business Dunia, Goenka concluded, “From now on the motto should be ‘compliance first, business next.'”

The topic of sustainability in the apparel industry isn’t a new one, nor is it limited to retail. Companies such as Gildan, Kornit, and Hanes (among others) have implemented various strategies and policies all geared toward a better approach to apparel manufacturing and decorating.

For many, this is no longer a trend, but a reality that even apparel decoration shops should adopt. Check out these 10 simple ways you can run a more sustainable print shop.