Greater Noida/Delhi NCR – 26th June 2024 – 18th edition of IFJAS concluded after three eventful field days with a well-attended Valedictory Ceremony and Best Display Awards. The Awards were given away in categories of Fashion Jewellery and Fashion Accessories. A buyer felicitation was also part of the occasion.
Dileep Baid, Chairman, EPCH said, “India’s varied geographical locations, brought into IFJAS, distinct cultural identities and products made from an abundant raw material base. Significantly, the regional displays with participants from pan India set up at the fair got their share of attention and market exposure. Some of the jewellery crafts displayed at IFJAS have a rich history and are being continued as a family tradition, but with chic touches to suit today’s trends. Dhokra and tribal jewellery, silver meenakari, paper jewellery, Chikankaari, varied needle craft embellishments, shell/pearl, stone embedded work and leather craft are just some of them.”
Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Chief Mentor in a role of Director General, EPCH and Chairman, India Exposition Mart Ltd., added, “The dynamism and competencies of our manufacturers gathered at IFJAS, make this show a destination with many opportunities and our buyers agree to that. Product lines and production practices confirming to the sustainability theme remain a focal point and among sought after products at IFJAS. Dedicated to contributing to a more sustainable and ethical future, many exhibitors and suppliers presented vibrant eco-friendly products, including cotton and jute lifestyle accessories, hand-painted artisanal apparel using natural dyes, bags made from recycled denim, waste cloth and paper, fashion accessories crafted from natural fibers like screw pine, water hyacinth, kauna, sabai grass, etc. sourced during nature’s cyclical changes, among others. These and many such ideas attracted many buyers.” Further to this, Mr. Sagar Mehta, Vice Chairman, EPCH said, “with emphasis on the circularity and environmentally friendly supply chains for a sustainable, inclusive, and thriving future, EPCH is guiding the Indian handicrafts industry toward responsible manufacturing and greener value chains.”
“The business interactions and exchanges kept participants busy. Fashion shows saw seeing many enquiring about the products showcased at the ramp sequences throughout the show. Buyers, including new in good numbers visited and shared their interest in placing orders with their regular and new suppliers at the fair. As per feedback, they appreciated pieces with laborious handcrafting techniques. This is a trend that will see prominence in many of the world’s significant markets for India, they have shared,” informed Mr. Sobinder Singh Kohli, President, Reception Committee, IFJAS 2024.
Vincenzo Toscano, a buyer from UK who was here for inspiration and buying said, “I’m interested in sourcing sustainable and recycled products. Additionally, I’ve noticed that customers are willing to pay a premium for products with a compelling backstory about their manufacture, so I’m looking for products with such narratives.” Cherese Duffield and Irna Bezuidenhout, from South Africa said, “We’re drawn to the exceptional craftsmanship here. Our online store and boutique showcase the best of Indian products, and we’re eager to replenish our inventory with exquisite garments, jewellery, bags, and crafts. The quality and variety on display here are truly remarkable, and we’re excited to discover more.”
Mr. R. K Verma, Executive Director, EPCH shared, “A total of around 500 buyers and buying representatives from 50 nations along with around 250 domestic volume buyers explored business opportunities and sourcing from India leading to enquiries worth around Rs. 300 crores. 197 exhibitors of fashion jewellery and accessories exporters engaged with buyers; artisans used the opportunity of the trade platform to their best benefit & learning; ramp presentations with products from several participants at the show attracted many. On display at IFJAS was a well spread product range with fashion jewellery; semi-precious jewellery; belts & wallets; hand bags & purses; fashion accessories; head & hair accessories; stoles & scarves; shawls; embroidered, beaded & sequined accessories; fancy footwear; artisanal apparel; protective wear; and components. Regional artisans and entrepreneurs who got an opportunity to showcase their new lines and assortments at IFJAS are set to go back with orders, enquiries and post-fair follow-ups.”
The Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) is the nodal agency responsible for promoting handicraft exports from India and creating a brand image that showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of millions of artisans and craftspeople. These skilled individuals work in various craft clusters across the country, producing a wide range of home, lifestyle, textiles, furniture, and fashion jewelry and accessories. According to Mr. R. K. Verma, Executive Director of EPCH, the total handicraft exports for the year 2023-24 amounted to Rs. 32,759 Crores (US $ 3,956 Million), with fashion jewelry and accessories exports reaching Rs. 5,793 Crores (US $ 517 Million) during the same period.
