dateline: Delhi: Manufacturers, designers, and local industry players in Delhi, India, are highlighting the potential of the country’s local products and markets to transform the economic prospects of nations in the global south. At a market exhibition known as Delhi Haat, traders emphasized that their local products and markets serve as ‘safe havens’ for Ghanaian traders and investors aiming to provide quality and affordable goods to their market segments.
According to Ghana News Agency, Delhi Haat, which exudes a traditional rural market atmosphere, is held for approximately three weeks each year and is renowned as one of the largest and most famous markets for buying contemporary products and handicrafts. Mr. Siphartha Bhattacharya, a designer and manufacturer of fabrics based in New Delhi, along with his sales team in a makeshift structure, mentioned that their high-quality local products are priced affordably to reach developing countries like Ghana.
In an interview, Mr. Bhattacharya stated that the tr
ade of local products between Ghana and India could not only create jobs and reduce the high cost of living in Ghana but also address the circular economy issues that have led to textile waste management challenges in several African countries, including Ghana. He pointed out that many manufacturers are spread across towns and villages in India, using indigenous techniques, and investors could receive incentives and unique products unavailable elsewhere in the world.
Highlighting the diverse array of products available, Mr. Bhattacharya said, “We have garments for ladies, men, and children, food items, furniture, cosmetics, bags, ceramics, brass, shoes, and jewelry, among others. If you want 500 pieces, 50 pieces, or 10 million pieces, you will get them.” He added that India’s economically friendly laws, reliable and affordable electricity, and sustainable infrastructure, along with a vibrant local production ecosystem, enable them to offer Ghanaian counterparts high-quality products.
The handcraft market c
elebrated through the exhibition marks the beginning of the use of the wheel machine by Mahatma Gandhi as part of efforts to create economic opportunities for the people. Kashmir, a region in northwestern India, is renowned for its quality fabrics, including cotton, silk, and pashmina blends.
Mr. Bilal Khan, a trader of pashmina fabrics, noted that his clothes are designed to provide warmth during cold weather, making them suitable for Ghana, which experiences extreme weather conditions. He emphasized the profitability of sales of these fabrics and other products, offering discounts and incentives to Ghanaian customers for long-term mutual benefits.
Miss Nandini Kalita, an Assistant Professor at Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology, who regularly purchases products from Delhi Haat, remarked that the market offers goods at affordable prices. She urged the Indian Government to provide more opportunities to local manufacturers to boost production.
