For over 50 years, the Australian wool industry, through Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) and its global brand, The Woolmark Company, has worked closely with Indian manufacturers, brands, educational institutions, research organisations, and government bodies to advance the use of Australian Merino wool. Through continued investment in research, product development, technical education, and market expansion, The Woolmark Company has played an integral role in supporting the evolution of India's wool sector.

Focus on innovation and performance wool

At Bharat Tex 2026, The Woolmark Company engaged with manufacturers, brands, research organisations, government stakeholders, and educational institutions to showcase the natural performance benefits and versatility of Australian Merino wool across fashion, textiles and emerging applications. The focus is on educating the industry about the benefits of using merino wool in the performance sportswear category, based on a recent study on dynamic breathability and innovation products displayed at the booth. The event also served as a platform to strengthen industry relationships, facilitate knowledge exchange, and reinforce Woolmark's role as the global authority on wool.

As part of its participation, The Woolmark Company, together with Austrade and the Australian High Commission, hosted an industry networking evening, bringing together key representatives from the textile and apparel ecosystem to foster dialogue around innovation, sustainability, natural fibres, and the growing opportunities for Australia–India collaboration.

Strategic partnerships with research institutions

Building on this broader commitment to industry engagement, The Woolmark Company signed two strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with The South India Textile Research Association (SITRA) and The Technological Institute of Textile & Sciences (TITS), Bhiwani. Together, these collaborations focus on advancing industry innovation, technical capability, research, education and market development across the wool value chain, further reinforcing Woolmark's long-term commitment to supporting the sustainable growth and global competitiveness of India's wool and textile sector.

Long-term commitment to India's wool sector

"For more than five decades, India has been one of The Woolmark Company's most strategic and valued markets. Bharat Tex provides an exceptional platform to deepen industry partnerships, foster innovation, and demonstrate how collaboration can unlock new opportunities for Australian Merino wool across India's textile and apparel value chain. As India's textile industry continues to evolve and move towards higher-value, premium products, we remain committed to working alongside manufacturers, brands, research institutions, and government partners to drive innovation, support product development, and strengthen India's position as a global destination for premium wool textiles and apparel," said Ajay Pradhan, Country Manager, The Woolmark Company.

“India is a key market for Australian wool, and the strong partnership between Australian wool exporters and India’s textile industry continues to create mutual opportunities. We are proud to support Australian Wool Innovation at Bharat Tex 2026, strengthening industry connections and highlighting the premium quality and versatility of Australian wool,” said Todd Miller, Trade & Investment Commissioner, Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), Mumbai

The participation of The Woolmark Company and Austrade at Bharat Tex 2026 reinforces the growing collaboration between Australia and India in the textile sector, supporting both countries' shared vision of driving innovation, sustainability, and value-added manufacturing through stronger industry partnerships.

Through its participation at Bharat Tex 2026, strategic partnerships, and continued industry engagement, The Woolmark Company continues to strengthen its role as the global authority on wool by fostering innovation, enabling technical excellence, and supporting the long-term growth of India's wool and textile industry.