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Lectra Flags Digital Transformation As Critical Lever For Indian Apparel Competitiveness

• By  Textile Excellence
• January 31, 2026

Digital transformation is rapidly becoming the defining factor for survival and scale in the global apparel industry, senior leaders agreed at an exclusive Lectra industry interaction held in New Delhi. The event came at a time when apparel manufacturers worldwide are navigating tariff volatility, rising input costs and tightening sustainability expectations from global buyers.

Daniel Harari, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lectra, said India represents a strategic growth market as uncertainty reshapes global sourcing decisions. He highlighted that shorter production cycles, cost pressures and sustainability mandates are forcing manufacturers to rethink traditional operating models. Intelligent Industry 4.0 solutions combining data, automation and precision were positioned as essential tools to balance profitability and environmental responsibility.

Indian apparel exports stood at nearly US$16 billion in 2025, while the global apparel market exceeded US$1.8 trillion, intensifying competition among sourcing nations. Buyers increasingly expect speed, traceability and compliance alongside price competitiveness. Digitalisation across design, cutting, planning and supply chain visibility is emerging as a decisive differentiator.

Dr A Sakthivel, Chairman of the Apparel Export Promotion Council, said technology adoption is no longer optional for Indian exporters. AI driven design, 3D sampling and data led demand forecasting are helping factories respond faster to buyers while reducing material waste and sampling costs. Such capabilities also strengthen transparency and sustainability credentials required by European and UK markets.

Daniel Harari, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lectra, said India represents a strategic growth market as uncertainty reshapes global sourcing decisions. He highlighted that shorter production cycles, cost pressures and sustainability mandates are forcing manufacturers to rethink traditional operating models. Intelligent Industry 4.0 solutions combining data, automation and precision were positioned as essential tools to balance profitability and environmental responsibility.