From Bharat to Moscow: Why CPM Moscow 2026 is a Goldmine for Indian Apparel Exporters.
- prerak bhatt
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Collection Premiere Moscow (CPM) 2026 is preparing to take center stage from February 17–20 at the Crocus Expo. As Russia’s premier international fashion trade show, this event is more than just a runway-it is a high-velocity gateway for global trade.
With over 850 brands from 30+ countries and an expected 20,000 trade visitors, the 2026 edition will showcase the Fall-Winter 2026/2027 collections across womenswear, menswear, kids’ clothing, lingerie, accessories, and home textiles.
A Growing Legacy: What to Expect at CPM
Since its inception in 2003, CPM Moscow has evolved into Eastern Europe’s leading fashion fair. The event is a vibrant ecosystem featuring:
Catwalk Shows: Live demonstrations of upcoming seasonal trends.
Trend Seminars: Expert insights into the Russian consumer psyche.
Buyer-Seller Matchmaking: Dedicated platforms to turn introductions into contracts.
The 2026 edition puts a spotlight on major manufacturing hubs like India, Turkey, and China. For Indian exhibitors, the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) has already begun encouraging participation, recognizing the massive potential for Indian craftsmanship on this stage.
Why the Russian Market is Calling for India
Russia’s fashion sector is undergoing a tectonic shift. With the exit of many Western brands, a significant niche has opened for durable, affordable, and high-quality imports.
Surging Demand: Apparel imports from India grew 1.6-fold in 2024, with total exports reaching a staggering $4.9 billion in the 2024/25 period.
India’s Sweet Spot: Russian buyers are actively seeking cotton knits, jerseys, trousers, denim, and home goods-categories where India’s cost-effective production shines.
The China Alternative: Russia is increasingly looking toward India as a primary alternative for everyday basics, workwear, and contract manufacturing.
Strategic Opportunities for Indian Firms
Participating in CPM 2026 isn't just about exhibiting; it’s about securing a seat at the table with Russia’s biggest retail players, including members of ACORT (the Association of Retail Companies).
Key areas of growth include:
Direct Partnerships: Networking with retailers who prioritize "quality-to-price" ratios.
Industrial Collaboration: Building on existing momentum, such as the Ivanovo Region collaborations, which focus on joint ventures and worker exchanges.
Niche Dominance: High demand for kids’ wear, shawls, and ethnic textiles allows Indian firms to leverage their unique cultural narratives.
The Long-Term Competitive Edge
Beyond the borders of Russia, CPM offers visibility that extends into Central Asia, amplifying brand reach to a massive professional audience of influencers, stylists, and distributors.
As industry giants like Arvind Ltd. pivot their supply chains toward the East, the message is clear: the future of Indian apparel exports is heavily intertwined with the Russian market. By blending traditional aesthetics with mass-market staples, Indian exporters aren't just filling a gap, they are defining a new era of fashion in the region.
Curious to dive deeper? Check out the full details https://www.aepcindia.com/
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