"Our quality is much superior to that of Bangladesh"

B.M.Boopathi CEO, TEKIC TDB: How many manufacturing units are operating in Tirupur Export Knitwear Industrial Complex (TEKIC) and what is their output?

B. M. Boopathi CEO, Tirupur Export Knitwear Industrial Complex (TEKIC)

BMB: TEKIC is spread over 100 acres of land and was established in 1990 for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) export oriented units (EOUs). Presently, there are 189 units related to knitwear production operating here including 60 EOUs. A majority, i.e., 75% of them comprise of small units and a large chunk of the contribution is from these units. More than 20,000 people are directly employed in TEKIC. On an average, each unit has the capacity to churn out around 5,000 pieces per day. The annual output capacity from TEKIC is valued at Rs.600 crore. TDB: What is the share of T-shirts in the total production at TEKIC? BMB: A majority of the units, i.e., 80-90% are into manufacturing T-Shirts. Tirupur’s share in India’s total T-shirts export is between 60-70%. TDB: There was a slump in production activity after the Madras High Court directive to close down pollution causing units. What was the impact of the directive and how did the revival begin? BMB: 752 units, which were doing quite well before, closed down in Tirupur following the Madras High Court directive. There was a total shutdown and considerable decline in productivity and output. But after the units started installing Effluent Treatment Plants and achieved Zero Liquid Discharge, the industry here is experiencing a turnaround. TDB: China continues to dominate global T-shirt exports. What is the difference between garments manufactured here and those produced in China? BMB: China is a designer’s market – they design garments according to their own concepts, which are in great demand. In India, specifically in Tirupur, it is more customised or made-to-order designing. In our case, the buyers prescribe the specifications. China is a seller’s market and India is a buyer’s market. Even Bangladesh exports more than us because of three primary advantages. Firstly, it enjoys the ‘least developed country’ status. Secondly, there products are cheaper as compared to India because of cheaper labour. Thirdly, it produces in massive volumes. But in terms of quality our products are superior to that of Bangladesh. TDB: Destination Tirupur seems to be an oft heard buzz from big brands. Why? BMB: Manufacturers in Tirupur have a reputation for maintaining high quality standards sought by international markets. Apart from this, we are able to cater to dynamic market requirements through timely deliveries. We are able to meet the deadlines for deliveries because of the presence of all allied units within the 15 km radius of this city.

"Our quality is much superior to that of Bangladesh"

you may also like...

We like you just the way you are.