High in demand abroad, govt urged to tap its export potential

TIRUCHY: Thirubuvanam traditional silks are in high demand not only locally but also internationally as the Tamil diaspora across the world prefers wearing the traditional silk sarees during any important functions including social gatherings and festivals. The need of the hour is to boost proper sales tactics.

According to G Pakkirisamy, secretary of the THICO Society union, several people living abroad prefer traditional silk sarees in any get-together, particularly weddings.

“We have a few regular customers from the US, Canada, and Australia who would never miss a chance to visit our showrooms and purchase traditional rich silk sarees. We have heard them say that the trends have increased and interest in wearing the ethnic dress, particularly traditional silk sarees have increased and so they use to make bulk purchases whenever they visit our showrooms,” Pakkirisamy said.

He also said that a few regular customers inform the showroom well in advance and ask the salespersons to ensure the availability of particular designs.

“If they inform us in advance, we make sure that the particular design is ready when they arrive. These customers do not care about the price but are particular about the design and we ensure it by all means,” he said.

As there is a growing demand for silk sarees due to many ethnic associations convening regular meetings, there is a good potential to export these traditional sarees.

“It is up to the government to train the people involved in this business. They can also train the weavers in it and make them exporters which would take the traditional work to the next level,” Pakkirisamy added.