Dr. A. Sakthivel on DPP & Sustainable Apparel Exports at Bharat Tex 2026 | Fibre2Fashion

How prepared are Indian apparel exporters for Digital Product Passports, sustainability regulations and growing traceability requirements in global markets? In this exclusive Fibre2Fashion interview at Bharat Tex 2026, Dr. A. Sakthivel, Chairman of the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), discusses how India’s apparel-export industry is preparing for changing sustainability and compliance requirements. He explains that environmental, social and governance considerations are becoming increasingly important across organisations—from factory workers to senior management. Exporters supplying European and other international markets must prepare to provide detailed information about products, raw materials, production processes, chemicals and supply-chain practices. The discussion covers: • Sustainability requirements for Indian apparel exporters • Digital Product Passports and product traceability • Tracking garments from fibre to fashion • Information related to raw materials and manufacturing locations • Chemical and environmental compliance requirements • Buyer-specific certifications and audit expectations • AEPC workshops and awareness initiatives across India • The role of AEPC as a bridge between exporters and global buyers • Sustainability implementation challenges for MSMEs • The need for ESG and sustainability-focused financial support • Opportunities created by India’s new trade agreements Dr. Sakthivel explains that while Indian apparel exporters are becoming