Home decor to crafts: IHGF fair back with 2k exhibitors

Noida: The 59th Indian Handicrafts and Gifts (IHGF) Delhi Fair began on Wednesday at India Expo Centre, Greater Noida, featuring over 2,000 exhibitors showcasing home décor and handicrafts. Union textiles minister Giriraj Singh, who was the chief guest on the inaugural day, highlighted India's strong position in traditional crafts, noting its potential to dominate 80% of the market.
The four-day B2B event has attracted more than 70 international buyers from countries including the UK, USA, Germany and Canada. The fair runs through April 19.
Singh addressed concerns about US tariffs, assuring govt support through bilateral talks and encouraging exporters to explore new markets through FTAs. He emphasised a global shift towards sustainability and eco-friendly manufacturing, and highlighted the govt's support for the handicrafts sector through infrastructure development, financial aid, design innovation and digital outreach.
Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) chairman Dileep Baid said the IHGF Delhi Fair brings together lifestyle, fashion and furnishing under one roof, along with live craft demonstrations of metal engraving, lac bangle making, Madhubani painting and Pashmina shawls. "Also, designers/alumni from NIFT/NID/IIT will be displaying their innovative product designs, including sustainable designs," said Baid.
Concerning the current global trend, Dr Rakesh Kumar, director general and chief mentor, EPCH, claimed that this edition of the fair does not expect any significant impact from the US tariffs. "That's because we continue to see strong participation from American buyers, with a healthy number already registered. The tariffs introduced by the United States are not exclusive to India, they apply globally. In comparison to China, Vietnam and Cambodia, India faces relatively lower tariffs. Further, the 90-day tariff pause announced by the US provides a timely opportunity for India to engage in a bilateral trade agreement (BTA). I am confident that the govt of India will seize this opportunity, paving the way for a trade-friendly agreement that will further strengthen our position in the American market," said Kumar.
According to Rakesh Kumar, who is also the chairman of India Exposition Mart Ltd (IEML), this year's fair is expected to scale up business inquiries from the estimated provisional exports of handicrafts during the year 2024-25, which were Rs 33,490.79 crores (US$ 3959.86 million).