The Woolmark Company Highlights Australia–India Textile Collaboration at Bharat Tex 2026
Strategic MoUs, Industry Engagement and Australian Merino Wool Innovation Featured at Global Textile Event
The Woolmark Company, together with Austrade and the Australian High Commission, participated in Bharat Tex 2026, reinforcing more than five decades of engagement with India's wool textile and apparel industry. The participation focused on industry collaboration, technical innovation, knowledge exchange and the promotion of Australian Merino wool across the textile value chain.
The Woolmark Company, alongside Austrade and the Australian High Commission, marked its participation at Bharat Tex 2026, highlighting Australia's long-standing association with India's wool textile and apparel industry.
For more than 50 years, the Australian wool industry, through Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) and its global brand, The Woolmark Company, has collaborated with Indian manufacturers, brands, educational institutions, research organisations and government bodies to support the development of Australia's Merino wool sector in India. The organisation has continued to invest in research, product development, technical education and market development initiatives.
At Bharat Tex 2026, The Woolmark Company engaged with manufacturers, brands, research organisations, government stakeholders and educational institutions to demonstrate the natural performance characteristics and versatility of Australian Merino wool across fashion, textiles and emerging applications.
A key focus of the exhibition was educating the industry on the use of Merino wool in performance sportswear, supported by a recent study on dynamic breathability and innovation products showcased at the company's booth.
The event also provided opportunities to strengthen industry relationships, facilitate knowledge exchange and engage with stakeholders across the textile ecosystem.
Industry Networking and Strategic Collaborations
As part of its participation, The Woolmark Company, together with Austrade and the Australian High Commission, hosted an industry networking evening attended by representatives from the textile and apparel industry. The programme focused on discussions related to innovation, sustainability, natural fibres and opportunities for Australia–India collaboration.
During the event, The Woolmark Company signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with The South India Textile Research Association (SITRA) and The Technological Institute of Textile & Sciences (TITS), Bhiwani.
The collaborations are intended to support industry innovation, technical capability, research, education and market development across the wool value chain, contributing to the long-term development of India's wool and textile sector.
Ajay Pradhan, Country Manager, The Woolmark Company, said:
"For more than five decades, India has been one of The Woolmark Company's most strategic and valued markets. Bharat Tex provides an exceptional platform to deepen industry partnerships, foster innovation, and demonstrate how collaboration can unlock new opportunities for Australian Merino wool across India's textile and apparel value chain. As India's textile industry continues to evolve and move towards higher-value, premium products, we remain committed to working alongside manufacturers, brands, research institutions, and government partners to drive innovation, support product development, and strengthen India's position as a global destination for premium wool textiles and apparel."
Todd Miller, Trade & Investment Commissioner, Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), Mumbai, said:
“India is a key market for Australian wool, and the strong partnership between Australian wool exporters and India’s textile industry continues to create mutual opportunities. We are proud to support Australian Wool Innovation at Bharat Tex 2026, strengthening industry connections and highlighting the premium quality and versatility of Australian wool.”
According to the organisers, the participation of The Woolmark Company and Austrade at Bharat Tex 2026 reflects ongoing collaboration between Australia and India in the textile sector, with a focus on innovation, sustainability and value-added manufacturing through industry partnerships.
The Woolmark Company stated that its participation at Bharat Tex 2026, along with its strategic partnerships and industry engagement activities, supports continued collaboration across India's wool and textile industry.