European Union is one of the leading importers of Indian handicrafts and the exports to European Union had remained on increasing trend. The export of Indian handicrafts to European Union has grown to Rs. 4905.95 cr during 2017-18 as compared to 4437.11 cr during 2016-17. In European Union, France has a special place and is one of the largest importers of the Indian products particularly houseware and homeware handicrafts.

Rakesh Kumar, Executive Director – EPCH said that in view of tremendous business opportunities in European market, the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts is participating in “Maison&Objet 2018” and organized thematic display of selected Indian handicrafts products under the banner of “India – Magic of Gifted Hands” in Hall no. 6 (Unique & Eclectic Sector) at the venue Paris Nord Villepinte, France (07 – 11 September, 2018).

Eight member exporters from different handicrafts clusters are displaying premium products includes home décor, home textiles & furnishing, Christmas decoration, metal art ware, glassware, leather crafts, furniture decorative etc. The objective of the thematic display is to create interest of visitors in Indian handicrafts which included products like hard goods, textiles & furnishing and gifts items, thus depicting home, life style, fashion and textile products from India.

Raghvendra Singh, Secretary (Textiles), Govt. of India inaugurated the EPCH Thematic Pavilion in the presence of Sarvjeet Soodan, Head of Economic & Commercial Wing, Embassy of India in Paris, France and member participants.

Raghvendra Singh, Secretary (Textiles) said that very impressive design and finishing of products are on display and given best wishes to EPCH for such initiative and appreciated the effort & ideas of the Council to showcase the wide range of Indian handicrafts from various handicrafts clusters under one roof which will definitely create the interest of the buyers. They were of the view that the young designer should be encouraged to visit such shows to have an idea of the innovative products.

Rakesh Kumar, Executive Director, EPCH further said that thematic display in Maison&Objet 2018 fair will create the image of Indian handicrafts in the world famous design oriented fair and will create India as a sourcing destination. Maison&Objet is the multicultural crossroads of contemporary living, places for meetings and exchanges, the show invites exhibitors and visitors from around the world and showcase a high-quality international product range. It provides a comprehensive overview of the excellence and innovation that help to share the best of creativity.

“Maison & Objet Paris” is regularly organised twice a year in January & September at Paris, France and considered to be the gateway to designer world for last 22 years. Maison&Objet fair is the major event for professionals working in the art of living in all its rich and varied expressions. More than 45,000 visitors are expecting to visit from 88 Countries to fair.

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