The 55th Garment Buyers and Sellers Meet, orchestrated by the West Bengal Garment and Manufacturer and Dealers Association (WBGMDA), proved to be a resounding success, generating an estimated Rs 850 crore in business transactions. This three-day event attracted the participation of over 900 national and international brands, signifying the vibrant engagement within the garment industry. Hari Kishan Rathi, President of WBGMDA, emphasized the industry’s substantial workforce, boasting over 50 lakh employees engaged directly or indirectly.
The substantial Rs 850 crore business transactions, driven by the participation of diverse brands, underscore the pivotal role of this meet in elevating Bengal’s readymade garment industry. Expressing gratitude for the government’s consistent support for the textile and garment sector, particularly in promoting clothing businesses and marketing opportunities, Rathi also articulated the association’s request for land from the state government. This land would be dedicated to establishing a showroom hub for garment makers in Rajarhat, New Town, facilitating a centralized space for buyers to explore offerings from various members under one roof.
Devendra Baid, Secretary of WBGMDA, highlighted the association’s requirement of at least 4-5 bighas of land to build a common showroom complex at Rajarhat. Such a facility would enhance convenience for visitors and buyers, considering New Town’s proximity to the airport. Additionally, the association believes that dedicated hubs like this could play a pivotal role in boosting exports. Baid also noted that while the state government has proposed land in areas like Kalyani for a garment park, manufacturers have expressed concerns about travel costs and time constraints associated with such locations. The emphasis remains on strategically located facilities to further catalyze the growth of Bengal’s garment industry.
