Shahi Exports, Innovo Fiber expand sustainable cotton processing

Shahi Exports, one of India’s largest apparel exporters, has partnered with Innovo Fiber LLC to expand the use of Fibre52 cotton pretreatment technology across its textile operations. The partnership combines Fibre52’s patented biochemical technology with Shahi’s large manufacturing capacity. Together, they aim to make cotton processing more resource-efficient within large-scale textile production.

Cotton pretreatment is one of the most resource-heavy stages in textile manufacturing. Fibre52 offers a low-temperature process that can be easily integrated into existing systems. It uses approved chemicals under ZDHC MRSL v3.1 and OEKO-TEX standards. This method helps retain the natural softness and wax of cotton fibres while removing the need for harsh chemicals like caustic soda and reducing overall resource use.

As part of its future plans, Shahi aims to convert about 25 percent of its knit processing capacity to this new system, which equals nearly 3,000 tonnes per year. This marks the shift from testing to full-scale industrial use within its operations.

Both companies plan to continue working together over the long term. Their focus will be on expanding the use of this technology, applying it across more product categories, and building scalable solutions for more sustainable textile manufacturing.