New Zealand Minister visits J&K pavilion
New Delhi| July, 17: The Jammu & Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO), under the aegis of the Industries & Commerce Department, government of Jammu and Kashmir, successfully showcased the region’s rich handloom, handicraft and textile heritage at Bharat Tex 2026, held from 14–17 July 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The event provided a premier international platform for the manufacturers, exporters, buyers, designers and sourcing agencies from across the globe.
Approximately 20 exhibitors from across Jammu and Kashmir participated under the J&K Pavilion (Hall No. 11, Ground Floor), presenting an impressive collection of traditional and contemporary textile products before thousands of domestic and international buyers, exporters, retailers, sourcing agencies, designers and industry stakeholders.
The pavilion showcased an extensive range of premium handmade products, including GI-tagged Pashmina shawls, GI-tagged Kani shawls, GI-tagged Kashmiri carpets, handmade GI Pashmina rugs, fine wool stoles, shawls, scarves, chain stitch rugs, handcrafted bags and several other authentic products representing the unparalleled craftsmanship and cultural richness of Jammu and Kashmir. The participation enabled the local artisans, weavers, cooperatives and MSMEs to showcase their products, establish valuable business linkages and explore new domestic and international market opportunities.
A major highlight of the exhibition was the visit of Hon. Mark Patterson, New Zealand’s Minister for Rural Communities and Associate Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development, to the J&K Pavilion. The delegation was accompanied by Mathew Ayers, Deputy High Commissioner of New Zealand, Andy Caugheyof Wool Impact Limited, Aotearoa New Zealand; Dr. Romesh Khajuria, Chairman, (JKWDMA), R.C. Khanna, Chairman, WWEPC; H.S. Bhalla, Vice Chairman, WWEPC and Sanjay Chawla, Executive Director, WWEPC.
During the visit, the delegation interacted with the exhibitors and appreciated the exquisite craftsmanship, rich handloom traditions and exceptional quality of the products displayed by the artisans of Jammu & Kashmir. The delegation was briefed on the Jammu and Kashmir’s rich heritage in wool, pashmina, handloom and handicrafts and textile products, promoting sustainable value chains, technology exchange and enhancing trade and investment opportunities between India and New Zealand.
Speaking on the successful participation, Managing Director, JKTPO, stated that participation in such events reflects JKTPO’s continued commitment to provide global market exposure to the artisans, weavers and entrepreneurs of the Union Territory. The overwhelming response received at the J&K Pavilion demonstrates the growing appreciation for our GI-tagged products and traditional crafts. Such national and international platforms play a vital role in connecting our producers with buyers, promoting exports, strengthening sustainable livelihoods and positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a leading destination for premium handloom and handicraft products
Throughout the four-day exhibition, the J&K Pavilion witnessed encouraging footfall from buyers, exporters, retailers, designers, sourcing agencies and textile professionals from India and overseas, generating significant business enquiries and opening new avenues for market expansion for participating enterprises.
The visit of the New Zealand delegation further highlighted the growing scope for international collaboration in the wool and textile sector. This reaffirmed the shared commitment of both sides to explore mutually beneficial partnerships supporting innovation, sustainability, value addition and market development.
