1. Disposable Textiles
Disposable literally means designed for or capable of being
thrown away after being used or used up. Disposable textiles are textiles used
in or as apparel for functional applications, designed to be disposed of after
use. They are bound by "use and throw" concept. Textiles include
fibre, yarn, woven, knitted, braided structures and nonwovens. Of these
nonwovens fit most under the disposable category as they can be produced by
using compact production lines which give much higher productivity at much
lower operating cost. They can be tailor made functionally and economically for
the end user. Nonwovens are used in apparels as well as technical applications.
To list a few: Absorbent hygiene, Wipes, Medical, Filtration.
2. Existing Indian Market
A very good phase change is being observed in India from the durables to the disposables. The potential for nonwovens usage in India is great and there are many reasons why it will form an important sector. The world
giants in consumer products have all modified their strategies to suit Indian
conditions prior to achieving any success.
Behind China, India is the second fastest
growing economy. According to a survey by Goldman Sachs, India will become the 3rd largest economy by 2035. This is measured in $US. If
we use PPP (purchasing power parity) which takes into account local purchasing
power, India already has the 3rd largest economy. However, despite having a GDP
of US $1.09 trillion (2007), this works out as an average GDP per capita of $964
($4,182 at PPP- cost of living is relatively cheaper in India). According to a
new report by Goldman Sachs, India will grow at 8% until 2020. The new forecast
would see India overtake the United States to become the largest economy in the
world after China after 2042.
With the younger workforce and growing per-capita
income, the middle and upper classes will grow significantly, and spending will
increase. Although the use of nonwovens per-capita is extremely low in India at $0.04/capita compared to $2.73/capita in North America, the market is growing rapidly for
end uses in feminine care, medical, automotives and packaging applications.
The hygiene market in India has a great
potential because of the low penetration and the sheer size of the market. The
entry strategies with feminine hygiene products followed by baby diapers, and
eventually adult incontinence, will make it possible for women, children and
adults to benefit from new, hygienic and easy-to-use products. The need for
single-use surgical products (gowns and drapes) is imminent in Indian hospitals.
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About the Author
The author
is currently working as an Associate Director with Technopak Advisors Pvt. Ltd.
heading Textile Technology Group.
