Union Minister for Textiles Giriraj Singh, began his official visit to Japan with a symbolic tribute at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Tokyo, underlining the enduring values of truth, non-violence, and compassion. The visit, aimed at deepening textile trade relations, marks a significant step toward positioning India as a global manufacturing hub.

Giriraj Singh chaired a strategic meeting at the Indian Embassy in Tokyo, where Ambassador Sibi George briefed him on the evolving India-Japan textile partnership and emerging business potential. He later engaged in high-level discussions with Tadashi Yanai, head of Fast Retailing Co Ltd a global apparel powerhouse to explore opportunities for expanding sourcing, manufacturing, and retail footprints in India.

The Minister also met leaders of Stylem Co Ltd, a key textile trading company, encouraging greater participation in India’s textile ecosystem, especially through government-backed PM MITRA Parks. A major announcement came from Daiso Industries, which confirmed plans to open 200 stores in India and begin manufacturing cotton products locally. Giriraj Singh urged the company to leverage India’s infrastructure and policy incentives for a strong industrial presence.

Further meetings included a discussion with Workman Co, a leading name in workwear and functional apparel. The company expressed interest in setting up manufacturing operations in India, reflecting growing international confidence in the country’s industrial capabilities.

Concluding the day, Giriraj Singh led a roundtable with CEOs of major Japanese textile firms, highlighting India’s growing edge in technical textiles, fibre innovation, and machinery. Additional Secretary Rohit Kansal outlined policy frameworks, reinforcing India’s message: the time is right to invest in its textile future.