Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has said that the "Made in India" label has evolved into a global symbol of trust, quality and national pride, stressing that every Indian manufacturer carries the responsibility of representing the country's reputation in international markets.
Speaking during a business plenary session in London on June 27, Goyal highlighted the success story of Tamil Nadu-based Florence Shoe Company to illustrate how Indian entrepreneurs are enhancing Brand India's standing through world-class manufacturing, innovation and a commitment to quality.
Sharing the experience on social media, the minister recounted an incident involving the company's founder, Aqeel Ahmed Panaruna, whose journey, he said, reflects the growing global recognition of Indian manufacturing excellence.
According to Goyal, an international customer visiting Cairo Airport noticed a premium Hugo Boss shoe on display. Curious about its origin, the customer checked the label and discovered it carried the words "Made in India." The luxury footwear had been manufactured by Florence Shoe Company at its facility in Ambur, Tamil Nadu.
Using the anecdote to underline the importance of maintaining high manufacturing standards, Goyal said every product exported from India becomes an ambassador for the country.
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"When you label a product 'Made in India', you are representing a country," the minister said. He emphasised that quality should not be viewed merely as a business target or corporate performance indicator, but as a national responsibility shared by every entrepreneur and manufacturer.
"For entrepreneurs like Aqeel, quality is not just a corporate metric, it is a national responsibility," Goyal said. The minister praised Panaruna's contribution to strengthening Brand India through consistent delivery of world-class products for globally recognised brands. He said the entrepreneur's work demonstrates that Indian manufacturers are capable of competing with the best in international markets while adhering to the highest quality standards.
Goyal also highlighted the broader economic and social impact of Florence Shoe Company, noting that its success extends beyond exports. He said the company has generated large-scale employment opportunities in rural areas, contributed significantly to women's participation in the manufacturing workforce and adopted environmentally sustainable production practices.
"His work has not only put Indian craftsmanship on global shelves for iconic brands but has also driven large-scale rural employment, championed women's empowerment in manufacturing, and pioneered sustainable zero liquid discharge technologies," the minister said.
He added that stories such as Panaruna's showcase the growing capabilities of Indian industry and reinforce the country's position as a trusted manufacturing destination.
Goyal concluded by expressing appreciation for Indian businesses that continue to raise global quality benchmarks and strengthen the country's international reputation.
"To Aqeel and countless Indian businesses setting global benchmarks, thank you for making the 'Made in India' label a symbol of trust, excellence, and pride," he said.
The minister was on an official visit to London from June 25 to June 27, where he held discussions on the implementation of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The landmark trade pact is scheduled to come into force on July 15 and is expected to provide a significant boost to India's exports by granting duty-free access to several labour-intensive sectors, including leather, footwear, textiles and other manufactured products.
Industry experts believe the agreement will create fresh opportunities for Indian manufacturers to expand their presence in the UK market, while success stories such as Florence Shoe Company demonstrate the country's growing ability to produce globally competitive products that combine quality, craftsmanship and sustainability.
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