Bharat Tex is an exceptional event, says Riju Jhunjhunwala of RSWM Ltd

RSWM Limited, a LNJ Bhilwara Group Company, is one of the largest manufacturers and exporters of value-added synthetic, mélange, blended spun yarns, denim fabric, knitted fabric, and green polyester fibres.

As a third-generation entrepreneur from the esteemed Jhunjhunwala family, Riju Jhunjhunwala has demonstrated exemplary leadership throughout his career.

In 2003, he assumed the role of Joint Managing Director at RSWM Ltd.

Under his visionary leadership, the company identified denim manufacturing as a lucrative business opportunity. This strategic insight led to the establishment of the state-of-the-art denim plant.

LNJ Denim, located in Mordi, Rajasthan, solidified RSWM’s position in the industry.

Over the span of 12 years, Riju Jhunjhunwala’s contributions to RSWM were instrumental, leading to his redesignation as Managing Director in 2015. His remarkable journey culminated in 2020 when he ascended to the position of Chairman and Managing Director, a testament to his unwavering dedication and strategic acumen.

With nearly two decades of experience in various marketing and strategic roles within RSWM Limited, Riju Jhunjhunwala has spearheaded numerous expansions and strategic alliances, propelling the company’s growth trajectory.

His visionary leadership has positioned RSWM as a premier manufacturer of synthetic yarns and fabrics in India, boasting an impressive annual turnover exceeding $500 million.

Amidst his busy schedule at Bharat Tex 2024, Riju Jhunjhunwala graciously took the time to share insights with Fibre2Fashion. In this exclusive interview, he provides valuable perspectives on the textile industry’s current landscape, shedding light on RSWM’s journey and future aspirations.

Q: What is your opinion on Bharat Tex 2024?

Riju Jhunjhunwala: Bharat Tex 2024 is indeed an outstanding initiative. The setup it offers, encompassing everything from yarn to fibre to finished garments, all under one roof, is truly commendable. I believe it will evolve into a landmark event in the textile industry.

This marks a great beginning, and I advocate for it to become an annual event. Looking ahead, I am confident that it will transform into a spectacular, unparalleled gathering, setting new benchmarks in the industry.

Q: What response have you observed for your products at Bharat Tex?

Riju Jhunjhunwala: The response for our products at Bharat Tex has been overwhelmingly positive. RSWM holds a prominent position in the textile sector, offering a comprehensive range from yarn to fibre to fabric. We manufacture our own fibres and produce various types of yarns, including polyester, along with denim fabrics and knitted cotton fabrics.

Buyers from diverse regions such as the US, Latin America, Turkiye, and others have expressed satisfaction with our products. Our marketing team maintains constant communication with buyers worldwide, and their visit to our facility further instils confidence in RSWM.

Q: Have you made any announcements at Bharat Tex?

Riju Jhunjhunwala: At Bharat Tex, we have not made any specific announcements. However, as a company, we have been experiencing growth. Last year, we initiated operations at a state-of-the-art cotton yarn plant, which we believe sets the standard for quality and productivity. Additionally, this year, we completed the acquisition of the spinning, knitting, and processing facilities of Ginni Filaments Limited (GFL).

This strategic move is expected to significantly enhance our turnover, employee strength, and plant capacity, positioning RSWM as a market leader. Currently, we are in a phase of consolidation.

Q: Are there immediate expansion plans in the pipeline?

Riju Jhunjhunwala: Yes, expansion plans are indeed in progress. These expansions will encompass both the fibre and yarn stages, as well as modernisation efforts for our existing facilities.

Q: Where do you believe India falls short as a manufacturing base compared to its competitors when it comes to apparel exports?

Riju Jhunjhunwala: India faces challenges in international trade, particularly due to unfair tariff barriers in key markets. Countries like Bangladesh enjoy preferential trade agreements with major economies like the US and the EU, placing India at a disadvantage.

However, the government’s initiatives, including Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like the UK and the EU and many others, are steps in the right direction.

Moving forward, focus on trade agreements should be a priority for India, I feel.

Q: How is RSWM positioning itself amidst this evolving scenario to capitalise on the available opportunities?

Riju Jhunjhunwala: As a leading name in the Indian textile sector, RSWM is continuously evolving. Our objective is to position ourselves (RSWM) as the top producer in terms of quality and cost-effectiveness. We are dedicated to constant improvement and are actively working towards this goal.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DR)