In a strategic move poised to reshape India’s apparel export landscape, the Noida Apparel Export Cluster (NAEC) and Gaiabay, a US-based digital marketplace, have joined hands to unlock massive trade potential between India and the United States. A high-level networking meet held in Noida today marked the official launch of this partnership, aiming to elevate the Government of India’s ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative into a robust ‘Local to Global’ movement.
The event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, exporters, and MSME entrepreneurs to explore how India can leverage emerging export opportunities created by the US’s shifting trade relations with China.
A New Era in Apparel Exports
Shri Rakesh Sachan, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister, MSME, Khadi and Village Industries, Sericulture, Handloom and Textiles, Government of Uttar Pradesh, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Speaking at the event, he said,
“This is a defining moment for India, especially for Uttar Pradesh, to strengthen its foothold in the global apparel market. The collaboration between NAEC and Gaiabay will serve as a strategic bridge to tap into major markets like the USA. The State Government will continue to support such initiatives that empower our youth and entrepreneurs with global opportunities.”
Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Member of Parliament from Gautam Budh Nagar, applauded the initiative, stating:
“Noida has already emerged as a global manufacturing hub. Now, this partnership in the apparel sector will open new doors for employment, investment, and export growth. Prime Minister Modi’s vision of taking local products to the global stage is becoming a reality.”
Unlocking a USD 30–40 Billion Opportunity
Lalit Thukral, President, NAEC, emphasized the massive scope this partnership brings, noting:
“The US currently imports apparel worth USD 154 billion from China, a figure that is now expected to decline. This shift creates a direct opportunity for India to capture a USD 30–40 billion market share. Through platforms like Gaiabay, we aim to directly connect Indian producers with the US market, giving MSMEs the global visibility and access they deserve.”
Lalit Thukral also stressed the importance of strengthening existing infrastructure and investing in technological upgradation to seize this historic opportunity, adding:
“OVER 90% OF THE MSME UNITS IN THE APPAREL SECTOR STAND TO BENEFIT FROM THIS INITIATIVE. THESE UNITS WILL GENERATE SIGNIFICANT EMPLOYMENT AND DRIVE THE REGION’S ECONOMIC GROWTH.”
Gaiabay’s Strategic Investment in India
Representatives from Gaiabay shared their operational blueprint, revealing that their advanced logistics network and dedicated US-based marketplace will cut delivery timelines by half and significantly boost brand visibility for Indian exporters.
They also unveiled plans to set up export hubs in 10 Indian cities starting July 2025, reinforcing their commitment to enabling seamless trade between Indian MSMEs and the American market.
Formal MoU Signed
A formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between NAEC and Gaiabay during the event, solidifying their shared vision to build a resilient and scalable apparel export framework.
The gathering witnessed strong participation from stakeholders across the apparel ecosystem — including exporters, MSME representatives, startups, and officials from various state governments and industry associations.
Supporting National Missions
This landmark collaboration aligns with flagship national programs such as ‘Make in India’ and ‘One District One Product (ODOP)’, and is expected to reinforce India’s emergence as a reliable and scalable node in the global supply chain.
