India, Russia Explore Joint Textile Manufacturing to Strengthen Bilateral Trade
India and Russia are expanding their textile cooperation with plans for joint manufacturing, enhanced market access, and the use of premium Russian wool in Indian textile production, as both nations work to diversify bilateral trade and strengthen supply chains.
The discussions took place during Bharat Tex 2026 in New Delhi, where a Russian government and business delegation met with Indian industry representatives to explore long-term collaboration beyond the traditional energy and commodities sectors.
A key initiative involves sourcing fine wool from Russia’s Kalmykia region for fabric manufacturing in India. The partnership will develop two product lines—one for everyday applications, including uniforms, and another premium cashmere collection—targeting both domestic and international markets.
Russian luxury apparel brand Aurus Cashmere has partnered with Indian textile company Bansal to jointly manufacture fabrics using Russian wool. The companies aim to position the collaboration as a global manufacturing platform capable of serving export markets beyond India and Russia.
According to Zlata Antusheva, Lead of the GR and Finance Sector at the Trade Representation of the Russian Federation in India, the textile sector is expected to play a significant role in helping both countries achieve their bilateral trade target of US$100 billion by 2030. Current trade between the two nations stands at around US$70 billion.
The Russian delegation is also engaging with textile stakeholders and government representatives in Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat while visiting manufacturing facilities across India.
Along with supplying Russian wool for Indian production, the collaboration will also support exports of finished Indian textile products to Russia. The partnership is expected to be highlighted during INNOPROM India 2026, scheduled to take place in New Delhi from September 9–11, 2026.