Textile Exports Drop: Minister Ramyead Sounds Alarm

A recent gathering in Mauritius brought together around thirty designers and Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) from the textile sector to examine the latest trends in fashion and production. This event, known as the Trend Forum, was organized by the Economic Development Board (EDB) in collaboration with the University of Mauritius.

During the forum, Naveena Ramyead, the Minister of Industrial Development, voiced her concerns regarding the declining trend in textile and clothing exports.

“Recently, we have witnessed a decrease in exports of textile and clothing, and my ministry is very much concerned about this situation,” she stated.

The minister highlighted that she has discussed these challenges with various industry leaders and representatives from the Mauritius Export Association (MEXA).

To combat this issue, she emphasized the need to diversify export markets by leveraging preferential trade agreements with countries such as India, China, the United Arab Emirates, and through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“We need to identify financial resources to support these initiatives,” she added.

In response, the Export Development Council will develop strategies that focus on identifying key products and markets for export.

In the meantime, the Ministry of Industrial Development is collaborating with the EDB on an action plan aimed at promotional activities that could ultimately reverse the declining export trend.

Participants at the Trend Forum engaged in both theoretical and practical sessions that centered on advanced garment construction techniques, modern digital tools, technical aspects of clothing manufacturing, haute couture, and sustainability in the fast fashion industry.

They were also introduced to digital innovation and strategies for aligning with market demands and improving production processes.

A highlight of the forum was a presentation by Sheila Murugan, an internationally recognized fashion designer with over 40 years of experience in the global fashion industry, currently working with Yves Saint Laurent in Paris.

Murugan has collaborated with prestigious fashion houses including Vogue, Jean Paul Gaultier, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Cerruti, and shared her insights on the latest clothing trends.

Ken Poonoosamy, CEO of the EDB, acknowledged that the sector has faced challenges in recent years.

These include intense competition from low-cost producing countries, rising production costs—particularly for raw materials, energy, and labor—currency fluctuations, and labor shortages.

Despite these obstacles, he noted that the industry has shown resilience through restructuring, market diversification, and regional integration.

“Many firms have adjusted their business models to accommodate smaller orders and just-in-time production while leveraging government support schemes,” he stated.

Poonoosamy emphasized the importance of Trend Forums in helping operators understand global trends, enhance their design capabilities, and strengthen their production capabilities.

Geerish Bucktowonsing, Director of Industry, SMEs, Logistics, and Freeport at the EDB, discussed the importance of capitalizing on new regional and global opportunities.

He referenced a McKinsey report highlighting that fashion is one of the largest industries in the world, employing 75 million people globally.

He stressed the importance of staying updated on the latest trends, colors, and fashion directions, which are crucial for capturing new opportunities in the rapidly evolving textile industry.

“This workshop represents a significant opportunity for our industry to adapt and thrive in a global market that is constantly changing,” he remarked.

“It underscores our commitment to promoting sustainability, embracing technological advancements, and enhancing our competitive edge on the international stage.”

In Mauritius, the garment industry comprises approximately 100 companies, employing around 20,000 people, and accounts for nearly 31.4% of the country’s exports.

Last year, clothing exports totaled USD 412.8 million, with Europe representing 30% of the export volume.

Source: Le Mauricien