Surat: Textile weaving units in the city have decided to restrict operations to a single 12-hour shift per day to curb production amid rising costs and weak demand.

The decision was taken at a meeting on Monday, where weavers cited increasing yarn prices, labour challenges, and subdued demand driven by global uncertainties, including the US–Israel–Iran conflict.

Surat, the country’s largest hub for man-made fabric with a daily output of around 6 crore metres, has been under pressure due to rising input costs and slowing demand, particularly in export markets.

The move was finalised in the presence of representatives from 11 weavers’ associations across the city and district, following earlier recommendations by the Federation of Gujarat Weavers Welfare Association (FOGWWA) based on an online survey.

FOGWWA president Ashok Jirawala said the production cut aims to stabilise the sector, reduce excess supply, and support workers. Industry leaders believe the step will help balance the market, ease pressure on weavers, and retain skilled labour.

Associations have urged members to strictly implement the single-shift system, adding that normal operations will resume once market conditions improve. DeshGujarat