CMAI’s 81st Garment Fair Goes Two-Phase
The Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI) has announced the 81st edition of its flagship event, the National Garment Fair (NGF), to be held in a new two-phase format. Recognized as India’s largest B2B apparel trade fair, the 81st NGF will feature two focused segments — Kidswear from June 23 to 25, and Menswear and Womenswear from July 14 to 16. Both events will take place at the Bombay Exhibition Centre (NESCO), Mumbai, and are expected to attract over 35,000 buyers from across the country.
To enhance participation and improve the sourcing experience for buyers, the Fair will offer more than 20,400 sqm of exhibition space for kidswear, 15,300+ sqm for menswear, 21,200+ sqm for womenswear, and around 680 sqm for accessories. The event will showcase collections from over 580 kidswear brands, 800+ menswear and womenswear brands, and 40+ accessories brands, providing a comprehensive, category-driven sourcing platform.
Commenting on the industry landscape, CMAI President Santosh Katariya said that recent policy measures, including restrictions on garment imports from Bangladesh, have created significant opportunities for domestic manufacturers. He noted that Indian apparel makers are responding with agility and scale as global supply chains are re-evaluated and the call for self-reliance gains momentum. Katariya said the 81st NGF is reflective of this shift, offering homegrown brands and MSMEs a larger platform to showcase their capabilities and build strong retail partnerships.
CMAI Fair Committee Chairman Rohit Munjal added that the Fair has consistently received overwhelming interest, with stalls booked well in advance and a long waiting list of exhibitors. He said the new two-phase format is a strategic step to meet growing demand and deliver a more focused, seamless experience for buyers and exhibitors alike.
Joint Chairman of the Fair Sub-Committee, Anand Chokshi, highlighted emerging trends in India’s apparel market, including growing consumer focus on sustainability, value-based purchases, and quicker fashion cycles. With the festive and wedding seasons approaching, Chokshi said demand is rebounding strongly, and the NGF provides brands with an ideal platform to align with market shifts and build meaningful business connections.
The 81st NGF is set to reinforce its reputation as the most influential apparel trade event in India, supporting the sector’s ongoing transformation and providing industry stakeholders with valuable opportunities for growth and collaboration.
