Ms. Shanice Dsouza, Post – Graduate Academic Scholar, National Institute of Fashion
Technology, Ministry of Textiles, Daman Campus
Dr Vidhu Sekhar P, Assistant Professor, Department of Fashion Management Studies, National Institute of Fashion Technology, Ministry of Textiles, Daman campus
Introduction
Mumbai’s textile industry is a vital contributor to India’s economy, particularly in the realm of exports. With ambitious targets to increase textile exports to ₹9 lakh crore by 2030, the city’s infrastructure—especially its ports—plays a pivotal role in meeting global demand. This article delves into the current state of Mumbai’s textile exports, the challenges faced by exporters, the necessity for port expansion & how sustainability and technology are shaping the future.
Mumbai’s Textile Export Landscape
India is currently the sixth-largest textile exporter globally, with Mumbai serving as a key hub for production and trade. The industry contributes 20% to industrial production and 18% to employment in India’s industrial sector. In FY25 alone, textile exports reached ₹3 lakh crore, with significant growth expected in the coming years. The major Mumbai’s textile products are exported to major markets of United States, European Union, United Kingdom, and to Middle East. These regions demand high-quality & timely deliveries, underscoring the importance of efficient logistics & port infrastructure.
Challenges Faced by Textile Exporters in Mumbai
Despite its strong export performance, Mumbai’s textile industry faces several hurdles. Countries like Bangladesh & Vietnam offer lower production costs & have preferential trade agreements with major markets like the EU. Existing port facilities often experience congestion, leading to delays that can deter international buyers. Fluctuations in cotton & synthetic fibre prices impact profit margins. Exporters must meet stringent labour & environmental standards, which can be costly and lack of skilled workers affects productivity & innovation.
Existing Port Infrastructure in Mumbai
Mumbai has two major ports that handle its export needs. Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPT) is India’s largest container port handles over 55% of container cargo nationally. JNPT is increasing its capacity from 6 million TEUs to over 10 million TEUs by 2027 through initiatives like deepening channels for larger vessels. Mumbai Port primarily handles bulk cargo but faces limitations in container handling. It includes three wet wharfs (Prince’s Dock, Victoria Dock, Indira Dock) with berthing capacities ranging from 8 to 15 berths.
The Need for More Ports
As textile exports grow rapidly, Mumbai’s existing ports may struggle to handle the increasing volumes efficiently. Expanding port infrastructure is crucial for several reasons. New ports like Vadhavan will provide additional cargo handling capabilities. Improved facilities will reduce congestion & speed up turnaround times for shipments. Larger ports can accommodate mother vessels directly, eliminating transshipment costs. Better logistics will help Indian exporters compete with countries like Bangladesh & Vietnam.
Expansion Plans for Mumbai Ports
JNPT has widened its harbour channel from 14m to 15m to handle vessels with capacities of up to 12,500 TEUs. A Free Trade Warehouse is being developed to attract investments & streamline operations.
Vadhavan Port Project is set to become India’s largest port by 2030, handling up to 23 million TEUs annually. It has an investment of ₹76,220 crore project jointly developed by JNPT & Maharashtra Maritime Board. The features include nine container terminals, four multipurpose berths. advanced rail-road connectivity and an employment generation for over 1.2 million people.
Sustainability in Textile Exports
Sustainability has emerged as a key factor in attracting international buyers. Growing preference for eco-friendly textiles drives demand for sustainable practices. Compliance with standards like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) enhances credibility among global buyers. Sustainable practices reduce operational costs through improved efficiency & waste reduction.
Role of Technology in Enhancing Sustainability
Technology plays a crucial role in promoting sustainability within Mumbai’s textile industry. Development of biodegradable materials reduces environmental impact. These methods minimize water consumption compared to traditional processes. Real-time monitoring of energy usage optimizes factory operations. Ensures ethical sourcing practices throughout the supply chain. Technologies like zero liquid discharge systems recycle wastewater effectively.
Conclusion
Mumbai’s textile industry stands at a crossroads where infrastructure upgrades are essential for sustaining growth in exports. Expanding port facilities — such as JNPT enhancements & the Vadhavan Mega-Port — will be critical for meeting rising global demand efficiently while maintaining competitiveness against international rivals like Bangladesh & Vietnam. By embracing sustainability through innovative technologies & addressing logistical challenges via expanded port capacity, Mumbai can solidify its position as a global leader in textile exports while contributing positively to environmental stewardship. As India aims for ₹9 lakh crore in textile exports by 2030, these strategic initiatives will pave the way for long-term success in global trade markets.
