ES. What strategic objectives does ISEPC aim to achieve through international exhibitions?
Sanjeev Kr Sharma. The Indian Silk Export Promotion Council (ISEPC) aims to enhance the global presence of Indian silk through international exhibitions. Its objectives include promoting Indian silk products, accessing new markets, showcasing a wide range of products such as fabrics, garments, scarves, sarees, silk carpets, and home furnishings, and providing networking opportunities for exporters with international buyers and industry leaders.
ISEPC also supports exporters in gathering market intelligence, improving product quality, obtaining certifications, and leveraging government schemes like the Market Access Initiative (MAI). Key strategies include highlighting India’s diverse silk offerings, participating in prominent international exhibitions, creating a strong digital presence, and building a distinct brand identity emphasizing silk’s unique strength, luster, and drape. With ISEPC’s support, exporters gain insights into global trends, policy guidance, trade facilitation, and adherence to international quality standards. Participation in exhibitions like the India International Silk Fair helps attract foreign buyers through incentives, increase export opportunities, and facilitate business deals.
Promoting the ISEPC logo alongside Indian silk products establishes credibility, builds trust, enhances visibility, and strengthens the Make in India initiative. Consistent branding, targeted marketing campaigns, and networking with international partners can position ISEPC as a trusted authority, boosting India’s silk exports and global reputation.
ES. What strategic objectives does ISEPC aim to achieve through international exhibitions?
Sanjeev Kr Sharma. The Indian Silk Export Promotion Council (ISEPC) supports exporters, particularly SMEs, in enhancing their global presence through international exhibitions. Key services include facilitating participation, booth design and management, pre-event promotion via social media and print, product display, and organizing buyer-seller meetings. ISEPC also provides market intelligence on trends, buyer preferences, and competitor analysis, along with training and capacity-building programs to equip exporters for global
markets. Financial support or subsidies are offered to offset exhibition costs, and post-event follow-up helps convert leads into business opportunities.
ISEPC further promotes exporters’ brands internationally by showcasing catalogues and lookbooks at exhibitions. This cost-effective approach increases visibility, builds brand reputation, and generates leads. A dedicated catalogue library, distribution of marketing materials, and digital display platforms allow exporters to reach wider audiences without physical presence.
Additionally, placing samples and catalogues in Indian Missions abroad enhances global reach. This strategy increases visibility, targets specific markets, supports cultural diplomacy, and offers low-cost promotion. Collaborating with Missions, curating products, and providing high-quality marketing materials ensures effective presentation. Through these initiatives, ISEPC empowers exporters to expand their global footprint, promote Indian silk products, strengthen brand identity, and drive business growth internationally.
ES. Are there any plans to host virtual trade fairs or digital showcases for Indian silk products?
Sanjeev Kr Sharma. The Indian Silk Export Promotion Council (ISEPC) hosts virtual trade fairs and digital showcases to promote Indian silk products globally. A key initiative is the Virtual India International Silk Fair (IISF), providing a platform for buyers and sellers to connect and explore business opportunities in the silk sector. Key features of Virtual IISF include a dedicated online platform for interactions, product displays from Indian manufacturers and suppliers, global reach to attract international buyers, and regional buyer-seller meets to foster targeted connections. The fair enables exporters to generate leads, build relationships, and secure business deals efficiently.
The Virtual IISF has proven successful, with over 120 exhibitors showcasing products and 350 buyers participating from more than 50 countries. With a decade of consistent presence, it has established credibility and trust in the global silk industry. Through these virtual initiatives, ISEPC aims to promote Indian silk products, enhance their global visibility, support exporters in accessing new markets, and facilitate business connections. By leveraging digital platforms, ISEPC ensures that Indian silk reaches a wider international audience while providing exporters with cost-effective, efficient avenues to expand their business and strengthen India’s position in the global silk market.
ES. How does the council plan to adapt to changing global trade dynamics and continue to promote Indian silk effectively?
Sanjeev Kr Sharma. To adapt to changing global trade dynamics and promote Indian silk effectively, the Indian Silk Export Promotion Council (ISEPC) can implement several strategic measures. First, investing in trade intelligence enables exporters to stay informed about global market trends, regulatory changes, and geopolitical shifts, supporting better decision-making. Scenario planning and risk management help mitigate disruptions caused by tariffs or regulatory changes. Digitalization and e-commerce allow exporters to showcase products online, reach new customers, and facilitate global trade.
Promoting sustainable and eco-friendly silk production caters to environmentally conscious consumers, while ensuring compliance with evolving regulations, such as the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the US Uyghur Forced Labor Act (UFLPA), maintains market access. Cross-functional collaboration among exporters, policymakers, and industry experts strengthens adaptability to trade changes.
