Why Surat Is One of India’s Biggest Textile Hubs

Surat has established itself as one of India’s major textile manufacturing and trading centres, particularly for man-made fabrics, sarees and dress materials. Its network of weaving units, textile processors, embroidery businesses and wholesale markets supplies buyers across the country.

According to The Economic Times, Surat textile industry was producing approximately 4.5 crore metres of fabric per day in February 2023. The report also highlighted the scale of the city’s weaving industry and the challenges manufacturers faced amid weaker demand.

How the Surat Textile Industry Built Its Market

Surat’s textile ecosystem connects multiple stages of production, from yarn and weaving to dyeing, printing, embroidery and finished garments. Its wholesale markets link manufacturers with traders, retailers and distributors across India.

This concentration of related businesses has helped Surat develop a specialised textile economy, creating opportunities for manufacturers, traders, transport companies and small businesses.

Challenges and Opportunities

The industry faces challenges such as fluctuating raw-material prices, production costs and changing market demand. Manufacturers are also exploring opportunities to improve technology, product quality and competitiveness.

The Gujarat government’s Textile Policy 2024 includes support for eligible activities such as weaving, knitting, dyeing, processing, embroidery and garment manufacturing.

Surat’s textile industry demonstrates how specialised manufacturing and trading networks can shape a city’s economic identity.

BizzUdaan covers the industries, markets and businesses driving Gujarat’s economic growth.

Sources

1. The Economic Times — Inflationary Pressure, Less Cash in Hand Hit Rural Offtake of Textiles from Surat — February 23, 2023.
2. Government of Gujarat — Textile Policy 2024 — eligible textile activities and policy incentives.