The following is a round-up of apparel and footwear news from the world’s local media.

  • The government of India’s Gujarat state has announced a “special package” to the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector to the tune of 1,000 crore. Part of the state budget for 2017-18, the deal offers enhanced assistance to MSMEs for market development, technology acquisition, raising finance through SME exchanges, additional assistance for power connections and capital and rental charges. Gujarat has around 3 lakh registered MSME units which provide large-scale employment. The sector had suffered business losses because of the cash crunch after demonetisation.TIMES OF INDIA

  • The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) have said a rise in the country’s natural gas prices is a “blow” to the world’s second-largest apparel exporter that largely depends on low wages and trade deals with Western countries to stay competitive. “At present demand is low and the price of readymade garments is decreasing by the day,” said Mohammad Siddiqur Rahman, BGMEA president. “Now our cost of production will increase, lowering our competitiveness further.” Gas prices will rise by an average 22.7 percent in two phases starting next month, according to the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC). REUTERS

  • Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina  has called on brands and buyers to help the country’s garment industry overhaul its factories. Speaking at the  Dhaka Apparel Summit, she said “huge funds” are required to overhaul the factories and urged brands to assist Bangladeshi factory owners, while promising the government’s support. THE DAILY STAR

  • India’s Ministry of Textiles is working on proposals submitted by Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) for the establishment of a ‘centre of excellence’ for MMF fabrics and a mega textile park at Pinjrat, near Olpad. The Centre for Excellence will allow the MMF sector to manufacture different varieties of fabrics for both the international and domestic markets. TIMES OF INDIA

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