Polyester – The Magical Fiber

Polyester is the most ubiquitous fiber in textiles, serving as a staple in everything from couture to fast fashion, sportswear to high-tech garments, and bedding to home furnishings. Its unique properties make it suitable both as a standalone fiber and in blends with natural or other fibers.

Globally, polyester is projected to grow at the highest rate among all major fibers due to its versatility and blendability. In India, this growth is expected to accelerate further, supported by government policies promoting man-made fibers (MMF) in the country.

Several factors are driving the increased demand for polyester in India, including evolving consumer trends, a growing focus on fitness and hygiene, rapidly changing fashion trends, and increased female workforce participation.

While polyester’s share in the total fiber basket is currently lower in India compared to global levels, it is rapidly aligning with global trends. At the mill level, polyester accounts for over 75% of the MMF basket both in India and globally, highlighting its significance in the textile industry.

Reliance benefits from its comprehensive presence across the entire polyester value chain, creating an ‘Integration Advantage.’ This includes downstream value chain products such as yarn, fabric, and garmenting, supporting the ‘5F Vision’ of our Hon’ble Prime Minister – from Farm to Fiber to Factory to Fashion to Foreign.

(Article by Ajay Sardana, President & Head- PETCHEM- Industry Affairs, Reliance Industries Limited)