TTI and DIP cooperate to develop OTOP textile production

15 Jul '14

2 min read

The Thailand Textile Institute (TTI) and the Department of Industrial Promotion (DIP) have joined hands to develop textile production under One Tambon (sub-district) One Product (OTOP) program.

As per the understanding, both TTI and the DIP would develop a project aimed at uplifting the skills of OTOP textile entrepreneurs by introducing innovations to add value to their products, and thus develop higher quality products.

The project would help businesses to compete in the global market, especially in view of the scheduled Asean Economic Community which envisages a single market for the ten Asean members beginning January 2015.

The project would begin with OTOP entrepreneurs in Nakhon Ratchasima province where it would engage more than 200 entrepreneurs for enhancing their product quality through development of standards, use of quality fabrics, etc.

Subsequently, the project would be rolled out to other regions with a target of 150 products to be developed for international exports.

There are currently over 17,000 OTOP textile and costume products reflecting local cultures, wisdoms and lifestyles in various communities around Thailand. However, only 1,000 of them are ‘A’ Level products that meet globally acceptable standards. Therefore, Thai local entrepreneurs need to be provided an understanding of market demand in order to export outside the country. Simultaneously, they also need to be trained about ensuring product quality and standard.

As part of the project, the TTI has planned to test sample the products which entrepreneurs want to export. If the product does not meet the standard, a team of consultants and experts would be sent to the tambon to analyze problems and make recommendations to improve product quality and bring it at par with international standards.

In the past, it has been found that entrepreneurs choose materials, colours and dyes of inferior quality containing residues, resulting in a fabric that loses colour when washed, according to TTI.

To make OTOP products fully compliant with international standards, the TTI will work in cooperation with related agencies. The institute would also organize other activities including workshops on quality textile products and apparel.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

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