Manipur int’l textile expo returns, focuses on sustainable handloom

Imphal: The Manipur International Textile Expo (MANITEX) is set to make a grand comeback after a two-year hiatus caused by unrest in the state. The expo aims to position Manipur as a serious global player in the sustainable handloom and textiles sector.Buyers representing at least 16 countries, along with four major international buying houses, have confirmed their participation in the expo. The event is scheduled to be held from Nov 8 to 12 at Urban Haat, Nilakuthi, in Imphal, additional chief secretary Anurag Bajpai said during a press conference here on Thursday.Key representatives from global sourcing firms representing UK, France, Italy, Germany, Netherlands, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, USA, Canada, Mexico, and Japan among others, will take part in the expo, Bajpai said.Manipur is home to around 2.45 lakh weavers and artisans, with nearly 30% of the state’s population dependent on the handloom and textile sector. The govt has identified it as a core economic pillar and is now working to elevate local products to international markets.The expo, set to be held on the theme ‘Weaving a Sustainable Future: Manipur’s Handloom Heritage to Global Fashion’, will focus on Manipur’s eco-friendly fabrics, natural dyes, and sustainable weaving practices deeply rooted in Manipuri traditions, Bajpai said.

The event is also designed to generate commercial impact by enhancing local brand recognition on the global stage, nurturing export-ready entrepreneurs, and establishing a clear roadmap for the inclusive growth of the state’s entire textile industry, he added.Highlighting the state’s long-term plan to promote the handloom and textiles sector, Bajpai said setting up a textiles park with modern facilities is in the pipeline. The ministry of textiles has recommended the state’s proposal for this to the DoNER ministry, he said.The proposed park aims to streamline manufacturing and marketing for local weavers.