After a two-year hiatus due to internal disturbances, the Manipur International Textile Expo (MANITEX) is making a strong comeback, reaffirming the state’s position on the global textile map. The event will be held from November 8 to 12 at Urban Haat, Nilakuthi, Imphal, and will host participants from 16 countries, including buyers, exporters, and designers from Japan, the United States, Europe, and the Middle East.
Organized by the Directorate of Handlooms & Textiles, under the Department of Textiles, Commerce and Industry, Government of Manipur, MANITEX 2025 aims to bridge the state’s traditional weaving heritage with international fashion trends.
Addressing the media, Anurag Bajpai, Additional Chief Secretary (Commerce and Textiles), described the expo as a milestone for the handloom sector after a two-year pause. “With conditions improving across Manipur, we are thrilled to host MANITEX again to showcase our rich and exquisite textile heritage to the world,” he said.
The theme of the expo, “Weaving a Sustainable Future: Manipur’s Handloom Heritage to Global Fashion,” highlights the state’s commitment to eco-friendly practices, natural dyes, and sustainable weaving traditions. Bajpai added that the expo will serve not just as a cultural display but also as a commercial platform, enabling local artisans to engage directly with international markets.
Adding to its appeal, MANITEX 2025 will feature leading names in Indian fashion, including Krishna Mehta Studio and Prama by Pratima Pandey, while international and domestic industry leaders from organizations such as IDEA NUOVA, Luxe Living, HEPC, CoFT, CAU, and Manipur University will conduct special sessions on market access, design innovation, and brand development.
