CMAI’s 81st National Garment Fair Opens with Strong Business Sentiment Ahead of Festive Season

Mumbai, July 14, 2025: The 81st National Garment Fair (NGF) - Women’ and Men’s wear edition, organised by the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI), has been officially inaugurated by leading pan India retail stalwarts collectively representing 70 retail stores.
The Guests of Honour who inaugurated the trade show included from across India including Siddharth Jalan of Sohum Shoppe (Guwahati), Sathish Gurram of GV Mall (Khammam), Kiran Vora of Asopalav (Ahmedabad), Manzoor Husain Gori of Pakiza Retails (Indore), Mrunal Bankapur of B S Channabasappa & Sons (Karnataka), Satish Mantri of Shree Shivam Attire (Indore), Sanjay Agarwal of Sanjay Textile Store (Jaipur), and Dharamshi Champshi Chheda of Rajwadi Emporium India (Valsad).
During the inauguration, Mrunal Bankapur, BS Channabasappa & Sons, said, "I am happy to be a part of this event that brings all of us together. With 20,000 potential buyers, this marks a significant step forward for the growth of our garment industry. Whenever someone asks me how to enter the clothing industry, I always tell them to come to NGF, whatever their need, they’ll find the right vendors here to help."
Further, Sanjay Agarwal of Sanjay Textile Store, stated, “I am grateful to CMAI for its constant support whether it’s addressing government-related issues, VAT, GST, or contributing to the overall growth of the garment industry.”
Kiran Vora, Asopalav expressed that he has been visiting the Fair for the past 32 years and as a retailer it saves him ample amount of time and effort to source as the latest variety is all available under one roof at the NGF. CMAI does this wonderful job of bringing the entire industry together.
Taking place from July 14 to 16, 2025, the NGF serves as one of the most prominent platforms for the Indian apparel industry bringing together manufacturers, retailers, designers, and fashion professionals to explore emerging trends and unlock new business opportunities.
Reflecting on the current landscape of the industry, Santosh Katariya, President, CMAI said:
“India’s apparel market is witnessing strong, sustained growth projected to reach US$146 billion by 2029. This transformation is driven not just by rising incomes and urbanisation, but by a fundamental shift in consumer behaviour. Fashion today goes beyond function; it’s a vehicle for self-expression, social mobility, and digital identity. As demand for branded and occasion-specific clothing rises, the industry must respond with innovation, agility, and a deeper understanding of evolving aspirations.”
Rohit Munjal, Chairman of CMAI’s Fair Committee, stated, “The Women’s and Men’s Wear Edition of the National Garment Fair has firmly established itself as a powerhouse platform within the industry. With an outstanding lineup of exhibitors, this edition is shaping up to be one of the most impactful yet. The overwhelming response with stalls selling out quickly and a growing waitlist reflects the rising prominence of these segments and the Fair’s continued relevance.”
Speaking on broader industry trends, Anand Chokshi, Joint Chairman, Fair Sub-Committee, CMAI, said, "We are observing an evolution in India’s apparel at the intersection of tradition and innovation. While menswear leans toward functionality and womenswear remains occasion-led, growth is being shaped by digital adoption, tier-2 market expansion, and rising demand for sustainability and personalization. The future will favour brands that blend cultural relevance with innovation across both consumer and institutional segments."