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HEPC Chairman V. Lakshmi Narasimhan Calls Bharat Tex 2026 A Launchpad For India's Handloom Export Growth

• By  Textile Excellence
• July 21, 2026

Bharat Tex 2026 has emerged as a powerful platform to accelerate India's handloom exports, according to Shri V. Lakshmi Narasimhan, popularly known as Ramesh, Chairman of the Handloom Export Promotion Council (HEPC). A leading exporter from Karur, Tamil Nadu, and associated with M/s. Sri Laxmi Export, he said the exhibition is creating unprecedented opportunities for Indian handloom manufacturers to strengthen their global presence at a time when new trade avenues are opening.

Speaking during Bharat Tex 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, Lakshmi Narasimhan said the exhibition has successfully brought together the complete textile value chain under one roof. More than 1,600 exhibitors are participating in the four day event, which is expected to welcome over 1.30 lakh visitors, including more than 7,000 overseas buyers from major sourcing markets.

The Handloom Export Promotion Council has made a strong impact through the participation of 65 member exporters, displaying India's diverse handloom heritage and value added products. Trade delegations from Oman, Russia, Sri Lanka and several other countries have also joined the exhibition, creating fresh opportunities for business partnerships and export expansion.

Lakshmi Narasimhan noted that the implementation of the India United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement on 15 July 2026 marks a defining moment for the textile industry. He said the agreement is expected to improve market access for Indian handloom and textile products while enhancing the country's competitiveness in one of the world's largest premium consumer markets.

He emphasised that India's ambition to achieve US$ 100 billion in textile and apparel exports by 2030 presents a significant opportunity for the handloom sector. Growing global demand for sustainable, handcrafted and ethically produced products aligns naturally with India's traditional weaving strengths. He added that innovation, superior design, product diversification and active participation in international trade fairs and Buyer Seller Meets will enable Indian exporters to capture greater global market share.

Lakshmi Narasimhan expressed confidence that Bharat Tex 2026 will further establish India as a preferred sourcing destination for premium handloom products while reinforcing the country's leadership in sustainable textile manufacturing.

Shri V. Lakshmi Narasimhan, popularly known as Ramesh, Chairman of the Handloom Export Promotion Council (HEPC) noted that the implementation of the India United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement on 15 July 2026 marks a defining moment for the textile industry. He said the agreement is expected to improve market access for Indian handloom and textile products while enhancing the country's competitiveness in one of the world's largest premium consumer markets.