Kanko Gakuseifuku (KANKO), Japan’s most reputed school uniform manufacturer with a distinguished legacy dating back to 1854, is exploring the possibility of establishing a reliable and long-term manufacturing partnership in Tiruppur. The move is part of the company’s broader global supply chain expansion strategy.
With over 170 years of heritage in uniform manufacturing, KANKO’s interest in Tiruppur signals growing international confidence in the cluster’s production capabilities, compliance standards, and export strength.
Tiruppur Positioned as a Strategic Sourcing Hub
During the interaction, Mr K. M. Subramanian, President of the Tiruppur Exporters’ Association (TEA), highlighted Tiruppur’s standing as one of India’s most reliable sourcing destinations. He emphasised the region’s hardworking and skilled workforce, which has played a central role in building Tiruppur’s reputation as a globally competitive knitwear hub.
Traditionally cotton-driven, Tiruppur has significantly diversified its product range in recent years. Alongside its strong base in cotton garments, the cluster has expanded into MMF (Man-Made Fibre) products, aligning itself with evolving global demand trends.
Mr Subramanian shared that Tiruppur’s current export turnover stands at approximately ₹45,000 crore, with an additional domestic turnover of around ₹30,000 crore. These figures reflect the cluster’s strong manufacturing ecosystem, technological adaptability, and sustained international demand.
Leveraging the India–Japan FTA
Another key point of discussion was the comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) already in place between India and Japan. Mr Subramanian noted that this agreement provides a favourable trade framework, offering tariff advantages and smoother market access for Indian manufacturers.
He expressed that Tiruppur industries are keen to strengthen their footprint in the Japanese market and view KANKO’s interest as a significant opportunity to build long-term bilateral trade ties.
TEA assured the delegation of its full support in identifying suitable manufacturing partners within the cluster and facilitating structured engagement to ensure quality consistency, compliance adherence, and delivery reliability.
Logistics and Export Readiness
Addressing logistical considerations, Mr Subramanian highlighted Tiruppur’s efficient export connectivity. Shipments can reach Singapore within a week, reflecting the cluster’s streamlined supply chain processes. Tiruppur also benefits from proximity to major ports such as Tuticorin (Thoothukudi) and Chennai, ensuring smooth and timely export operations.
He suggested that KANKO may consider beginning with smaller order volumes to assess service standards, quality benchmarks, and delivery performance. Based on mutual satisfaction and confidence, volumes could be progressively scaled up to establish a sustainable long-term partnership.
Factory Visits to Leading Units
Before the interaction, the KANKO delegation visited K. M. Knitwear Pvt. Ltd. and Techno Sportswear Pvt. Ltd. to gain first-hand insights into Tiruppur’s manufacturing capabilities. The visits provided exposure to infrastructure, technology deployment, quality control systems, and compliance frameworks, followed by leading exporters in the region.
The engagement reflects a practical approach by KANKO in evaluating production standards, capacity strength, and operational efficiency before formalising any sourcing decisions.
Strengthening Indo-Japanese Textile Collaboration
The meeting was attended by Mr K. M. Subramanian, President, TEA; Mr N. Thirukkumaran, General Secretary, TEA; and Mr Sunil Kumar Jhunjhunwala, Executive Committee Member, TEA.
KANKO’s exploratory discussions with Tiruppur exporters mark a promising development in Indo-Japanese textile trade relations. With a strong FTA framework, established manufacturing infrastructure, diversified fibre capabilities, and efficient logistics, Tiruppur presents itself as a strategic partner for global brands seeking dependable sourcing destinations.
As Japanese companies continue to diversify supply chains and strengthen resilience, Tiruppur’s structured manufacturing ecosystem and export experience position it as a competitive and credible partner in the global apparel landscape.
