KOCHI: Facing the heat after the imposition of a 50% tariff on Indian goods and supplements by the United States, Kitex Garments, a Kerala-based garment manufacturer, is set to introduce its US brand in the domestic market.
Little Stars, the brand exclusively for newborn babies’ and children’s clothing in the US, will be introduced in India soon.
Addressing the media, Sabu Jacob, the MD of Kitex Garments Limited, said that by strengthening their presence in the Indian market, they will be able to address any challenges that may arise due to high tariffs on exports to the US.
“This will also protect the interests of Indian consumers and investors. With the arrival of Little Star, Indians who want the best for their children will be able to get clothes that meet American quality, safety, and fashion at an affordable price,” he said on Thursday.
The imposition of 50% tariffs on Indian exports to America by the US government recently will severely affect sectors such as leather, chemicals, footwear, gems and jewellery, textiles and others.
Sabu Jacob also opined that by introducing US-based Kitex’s own brand, Little Star, to the Indian market, it is also an opportunity to make high-quality clothing that meets international standards easily available to newborns and toddlers in the country.
“Studies suggest that the newborn baby clothing market in India is expected to reach around Rs 1.46 lakh crore by 2030. The birth rate in India is six times the birth rate in the US. The birth rate in India is around 24 million. Accordingly, the demand for newborn and children’s clothing in India is also increasing,” said Sabu.
He added that the company will look for digital and offline opportunities to establish its presence in the Indian market.
“In this changing environment, the role of digital channels is crucial to establish a strong presence in India’s retail sector and to meet the needs of consumers. Thus, Little Star will be featured on multiple online platforms. The chain will be expanded to all cities in India through e-commerce and then across the country through retail platforms and e-commerce platforms,” he said.
Kitex Garments is a leading producer that exports newborn and children’s clothing to countries such as Europe and the US.
Through the expansion, the Kizhakkambalam-based company expects an additional revenue of Rs 1000 crore in the next two to three years.