New Delhi, February 23: India’s apparel exports recorded a moderate growth of 1.6 percent during April to January of the 2025-26 financial year, navigating global headwinds and persistent supply chain disruptions, according to the Apparel Export Promotion Council on Monday.
The performance reflects resilience in the ready-made garment sector amid geopolitical uncertainties and shifting global demand patterns.
Key Markets Show Encouraging Growth
AEPC Chairman A Sakthivel said exports to several major destinations posted encouraging gains during the period under review.Among the key markets, Italy led with a 16 percent rise in apparel imports from India. Saudi Arabia followed with growth of 18.5 percent, while the UAE recorded an increase of 10.6 percent. Germany and Spain also reported growth of 8.7 percent and 7.1 percent, respectively. The UK registered a 4.8 percent expansion.
Strong export performance was also recorded in Japan, Iceland, and Australia, indicating broader geographic diversification.
Sector Registers Moderate Growth Amid Global Challenges
“Despite global headwinds, geopolitical uncertainties, and ongoing supply chain disruptions, the sector registered a moderate export growth of 1.6 percent during April–January 2025-26 compared to the corresponding period of the previous financial year,” Sakthivel said.The data underscores the industry’s ability to sustain growth momentum in a challenging global trade environment.
AEPC Marks 48th Foundation Day
The council celebrated its 48th foundation day on Monday, highlighting its continued engagement with the government and stakeholders to promote, protect, and safeguard the interests of the ready-made garment sector.Over the decades, AEPC has worked closely with policymakers to strengthen India’s position in global apparel trade.
Government Initiatives to Support Apparel Sector Growth
Sakthivel noted that several government initiatives are expected to accelerate growth in the sector. These include the PM MITRA Parks, the Production Linked Incentive Scheme, Mega Textile Parks, the Export Promotion Mission, and the SAMARTH skilling programme.Additional support measures are also expected to provide momentum. These include promoting the cultivation of extra-long staple cotton, improving ease of doing business, enhancing credit access for MSMEs through expanded credit guarantee coverage, and setting up national centres of excellence for skilling.
Focus on Market Diversification in FY27
Looking ahead, AEPC plans to expand the global footprint of Indian apparel exports by diversifying into new and non-traditional markets. The strategy will be supported by targeted export promotion activities during 2026-27.The council’s roadmap signals a continued push to strengthen India’s competitiveness in the global ready-made garment industry, even as international trade conditions remain dynamic.
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