FW
Compared to the previous year, India's textile and apparel (T&A) exports increased by 6.32 per cent in in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025.
As per a report by the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI), this growth was primarily driven by the apparel sector, where exports increased by 10.03 per cent during the fiscal year.
Rakesh Mehtra, Chairman, CITI, says, this strong performance in apparel exports and steady growth in textiles amidst global challenges underscore the resilience, adaptability, and global competitiveness of the Indian textile and apparel industry."
He further attributed this success to the increasing momentum in establishing new trade partnerships and supportive policy decisions by the government, which have boosted confidence among exporters.
Mehra also emphasized the industry's optimism about sustaining this growth, particularly in light of shifting global trade dynamics.
The ongoing trade tensions between the US and China present a strategic opportunity for India, especially in textile and apparel trade. With the US actively looking to diversify its sourcing beyond China, India is well-positioned to become a reliable and preferred partner. However, this will require proactive diplomacy and a focused effort to secure a more favorable and stable tariff system, he notes.
In March 2025, India’s textile exports declined by 5.81 per cent compared to March 2024, while apparel exports increased by 3.97 per cent during the same period.
The combined T&A exports during the month declined by 1.63 per cent compared to March 2024.
However, for the period of April 2024 to March 2025, India’s textile exports grew by 3.61 per cent Y-o-Y while apparel exports grew by 10.03 per cent during the same timeframe.
CITI's analysis indicates, this growth outperformed the overall merchandise exports, which remained largely flat during the same period.
Led by Roop Rashi, Union Textile Commissioner, the Committee on Cotton Production and Consumption (COCPC) has urged the Central Government to eliminate the 11 per cent import duty on cotton.
K Venkatachalam, Chief Advisor, Tamil Nadu Spinning Mills Association (TASMA), reveals, COCPC made this recommendation at a meeting held in Mumbai.
COCPC further recommended, if the government couldn't fully remove the 11 per cent duty, it should freeze the customs duty for the next few months, Venkatchalam adds.
According to him, this action would send a positive message to the US administration and positively impact India's textile exports to the US
This development follows the COCPC and industry bodies like the Cotton Association of India (CAI) estimating Indian cotton production to be lower than 30 million bales (of 170 kg each). The CAI's latest estimate projects a cotton output of 29.13 million bales for the current season, ending in September. The association also forecasts that imports will more than double to 3.3 million bales, up from 1.52 million bales last season.
This year, total cotton supply this year, including the 2.5 million bales imported as of March 31, is estimated at 30.683 million bales, compared to the estimated consumption of 31.5 million bales.
The Indian textile sector has started importing cotton in recent years as the natural fiber's production has stagnated due to lower yields. India's cotton production increased to nearly 40 million bales in the early 2010s after the introduction of genetically modified Bt cotton. However, no new Bt variety has been introduced since 2006, and pest infestations like pink bollworm and whitefly, along with climate change, have begun to affect productivity.
Encompassing items like bedding, curtains, towels, blankets, and rugs, the global home textiles market is projected to reach a substantial $185 billion by 2030. Fueled by shifting consumer tastes, technological advancements, and increasing disposable incomes, this expansion signifies a major transformation in the home decor and textiles sector. The market's trajectory is shaped by various economic and social factors, alongside innovations in fabric production and the growing demand for eco-friendly options.
Several factors are driving the robust growth of this segment. Rising disposable incomes allow consumers to spend more on home decor. Urbanization and changing lifestyles lead to greater attention to home aesthetics and functionality. The e-commerce boom provides convenient access to a wide array of products. Technological advancements in fabric manufacturing are introducing smart, antimicrobial, and eco-friendly materials.
Sustainability is a significant trend, with consumers increasingly prioritizing eco-friendly products made from organic, recycled, and biodegradable materials. Brands are adopting sustainable practices to meet this demand. Consumer preferences are also shifting towards customization, a greater focus on health and comfort, and alignment with evolving aesthetic trends in interior design.
The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to experience the fastest growth, driven by rapid urbanization and rising incomes in countries like India and China. North America and Europe show strong demand for premium and sustainable products.
Despite this positive outlook, the market faces challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices, competition from low-cost imports, and logistical issues. However, the future remains bright, with trends like smart textiles, sustainable innovations, rising demand for luxury goods, and the growth of online retail expected to drive continued expansion. The global home textile market is poised for significant growth, and companies that adapt to these evolving trends will be well-positioned for success.
Often referred to as the ‘Textile City,’ Bhilwara is quickly emerging as one of India’s top textile center. The city is rapidly developing into a major textile production hub in the country, says Giriraj Singh, Union Minister for Textiles.
The city's annual textile industry turnover exceeds Rs 250 billion (approximately $3 billion), with yarn and fabric exports contributing around Rs 38 billion (approximately $456 million ). The industry directly employs about 85,000 people and indirectly employs another 60,000, highlighting Bhilwara's crucial role in the region's socio-economic landscape.
Further strengthening its status in the textile sector is Bhilwara's reputation as India's largest fabric manufacturer. The city accounts for 50 per cent of the nation's polyester fabrics and suits. It is home to over 850 manufacturing units, producing a wide variety of high-quality cotton, silk, and woolen fabrics that are exported worldwide.
The city growth is being further boosted by the Rajasthan government's implementation of the Textile and Apparel Policy 2025. Focusing on complete value chain development, the policy offers significant financial incentives and addressing infrastructure issues. It aims to create over 200,000 jobs in the sector, positioning Rajasthan as a modern textile manufacturing center.
Bhilwara's commitment to modernization is clear in its loom upgrade growth rate of 9.57 per cent, exceeding the national average of 8 per cent. This progress reflects the city's dedication to adopting technological innovations and improving production efficiency.
Furthermore, the city is seeing a significant change in its workforce demographics. Approximately 10,000 women have joined the textile industry, contributing significantly to both the sector's growth and the empowerment of women in the region.
With its strong infrastructure, skilled workforce, and supportive government policies, Bhilwara is set to continue its rise as a key player in India's textile industry, creating a history of growth and innovation.
The world's largest cotton sustainability program, Better Cotton has launched a Multistakeholder Platform in Pakistan to regularly bring together representatives from government, industry, donors, and universities. The initiative aims to encourage collaboration and drive collective action toward a more sustainable cotton industry in the country.
Held on April 10, 2025, in Lahore, the Platform’s first meeting in Lahore welcomed over 35 participants to establish shared goals and expectations for future meetings.
Hina Fouzia, Director, Better Cotton Pakistan, states, promoting more sustainable cotton production in the country will help Pakistan not just accelerate economic development but also protect human and labor rights, achieve national sustainability goals, and ensure access to global markets for farmers and suppliers.
The Multistakeholder Platform formalizes a strategy for closer engagement between government agencies and stakeholders in the cotton sector. It will foster greater transparency and accountability among organizations as they work towards a more sustainable cotton industry.
Participating organizations will attend quarterly meetings to share information and lessons learned, define priorities, and jointly develop action plans that can speed up progress.
Last month, Better Cotton launched a Multistakeholder Dialogue in Brait zil, connecting the country’s agricultural and textile sectors to promote collaboration across sectors, align on priorities, and develop joint solutions to shared challenges.
The spring edition of Denim Premiere Vision at Superstudio Piu in Milan will host a special tribute to Luigi Martelli, the visionary known as the ‘gentleman-artist’ who transformed the denim finishing industry. This emotional, immersive exhibition will honor Martelli’s creative legacy and lasting influence on generations of denim professionals.
The event will trace Martelli’s pioneering journey, celebrating not only his technical innovations but also his profound human touch. From his craftsmanship to his visionary approach, Martelli left an indelible mark on the industry that continues to resonate today.
Isko, the main partner of this tribute, shares a deep connection with Martelli rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and a close personal friendship between Martelli and Isko CEO Fatih Konukoglu. This bond gave rise to the Isko Martelli laundry in Bursa, Turkiye a facility that exemplifies Martelli’s spirit by blending advanced technologies with artisanal know-how. The project set new standards in denim finishing, grounded in precision, creativity, and responsibility.
Martelli was also recognized as one of the Bluemasters in a 2014 book co-published by Isko and Archroma. “Luigi Martelli was a true innovator who never lost sight of the human dimension,” said Konukoglu. “We’re proud to support this tribute and keep his inspiring story alive.”
Eastman is showcasing its latest sustainable innovation, Naia On The Move, at this spring’s Functional Fabric Fair in Portland, USA an industry-leading expo focused on high-performance and eco-friendly textiles for outdoor, lifestyle, and activewear segments.
Naia On The Move marks a new phase in Eastman’s cellulosic fiber development, building on the success of Naia Renew staple fiber. Designed for light sports and dynamic urban lifestyles, this new blending solution offers exceptional comfort, breathability, and quick-dry performance. The fiber is manufactured using Eastman’s advanced molecular recycling process, incorporating 60 per cent sustainably sourced wood pulp and 40 per cent recycled materials, verified by Global Recycled Standard (GRS) mass balance certification.
Targeted at the needs of modern, active consumers, Naia On The Move delivers next-to-skin softness, reliable shape retention, and resistance to pilling even after multiple washes. It performs well in variable urban conditions like shifting temperatures and high humidity, making it ideal for everyday wear. Independent testing reveals it surpasses polyester in moisture management and odor control, even at lower blend ratios. Its compatibility with wool and polyester further enhances design flexibility and wearer experience.
Following its premiere in Shanghai, Naia On The Move makes its North American debut in Portland. “This innovation was created to match the pace of modern life, blending comfort and technical performance,” said Chad Doub, Eastman’s global segment leader for staple fibers.
Attendees can explore the full Naia range and experience Naia On The Move in action at Booth 920, where Eastman invites visitors to discover sustainable solutions that blend function, fashion, and environmental responsibility.
The opening day of the two-day “Best of Bangladesh in Europe” event in Amsterdam concluded with strong international engagement, spotlighting Bangladesh’s growing economic potential. Held on April 17-18, 2025, at Beurs van Berlage, the nation branding event is being organized by Bangladesh Apparel Exchange (BAE) and powered by PDS Limited. It is supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), in association with City Bank Plc and KDS Group.
The event is expected to host over 1,500 visitors, including buyers, investors, and stakeholders from across Europe. A total of 32 Bangladeshi companies from eight key sectors apparel, leather, jute and handicrafts, IT, agro-food, poultry, and seed are showcasing their products and innovations. Notable participants include Aus Bangla Jutex Ltd, Brain Station 23, Countree Agro, KDS Group, Leatherina, PRAN Foods, Simco Spinning, and Zhejiang Weixing Industrial Development Co Ltd.
The inauguration ceremony featured Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Executive Chairman of BIDA and BEZA, as Chief Guest. Other prominent guests included Charles Whiteley from the European External Action Service, Pascalle Grotenhuis from the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh Ambassador to the Netherlands H E Tareque Muhammad, and Pallak Seth, Executive Vice Chairman of PDS Limited.
Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud highlighted Bangladesh’s ambition to become a global manufacturing hub, citing reforms like the ‘Green Channel’ and ‘One-stop Service’ to ease trade and investment. Charles Whiteley praised Bangladesh’s economic growth and export diversification potential, affirming continued EU support. Pascalle Grotenhuis emphasized Dutch interest in long-term collaboration, especially in the RMG sector. Ambassador Tareque Muhammad urged investors to explore Bangladesh’s dynamic business environment and skilled workforce. Pallak Seth lauded Bangladesh’s business transparency and forward-looking mindset.
Day one featured several panel discussions and breakout sessions, including topics like Bangladesh’s economic growth, global sourcing opportunities, decarbonization of supply chains, innovation in fashion, and textile recycling. Contributors to the event include Fashion for Good, Fair Wear Foundation, Apparel Impact Institute, Netherlands Food Partnership, and others.
Mostafiz Uddin, Founder & CEO of BAE, called the event a milestone in branding Bangladesh globally, fostering meaningful partnerships and business expansion.
The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) has strongly opposed the US Trade Representative’s (USTR) decision to impose new fees and tariffs on Chinese shipping and maritime equipment. The move follows a Section 301 investigation into China’s shipbuilding and logistics practices, and includes a phased fee structure targeting Chinese vessels, their owners, and operators.
In addition, USTR proposed new tariffs of 20 to 100 per cent on critical shipping infrastructure, such as containers, chassis, and ship-to-shore cranes. AAFA argues these measures will disrupt trade, hurt US exporters, and raise costs for American consumers and businesses.
AAFA previously submitted written comments and testified before the USTR opposing the plan. The association also commissioned a study warning of the economic damage these actions would cause across multiple sectors, including agriculture, retail, and manufacturing.
“With port fees reaching $1.5 million per call, these measures will raise shipping costs, reduce GDP, and cut US exports,” said Nate Herman, AAFA’s Senior Vice President of Policy. “Penalizing shippers for not using American-built vessels when they are scarce and five times more expensive is counterproductive. This decision will harm American farmers, manufacturers, small ports, and families alike.”
Herman further noted the announcement was strategically timed after markets closed, underscoring its potential to rattle economic confidence.
The European Union's appetite for T-shirts remains robust, with consumption expected to grow steadily over the next decade, albeit at a moderate pace. However, the market is witnessing a significant shift, with imports playing an increasingly dominant role as domestic production falters. A recent market analysis reveals, the EU's T-shirt consumption is projected to reach 3 billion units by 2035, growing at a CAGR of over 0.6 per cent from 2024. While this signals continued demand, the growth rate indicates a deceleration compared to the past.
T-shirt consumption trends
In 2024, the EU consumed approximately 2.8 billion tees, much like the previous year. From 2013 to 2024, consumption volume increased at an average annual rate of over 2.1 per cent, demonstrating a relatively stable trend with some fluctuations. The market peaked at 3.2 billion units in 2022, before experiencing a slight dip in the following years.
Table: T-shirt consumption
|
Year |
Consumption volume (bn units) |
|
2013 |
2.2 |
|
2014 |
2.3 |
|
2015 |
2.4 |
|
2016 |
2.5 |
|
2017 |
2.6 |
|
2018 |
2.7 |
|
2019 |
2.8 |
|
2020 |
2.9 |
|
2021 |
3.1 |
|
2022 |
3.2 |
|
2023 |
2.8 |
|
2024 |
2.8 |
In value terms, the EU's T-shirt market reached $9.3 billion in 2024, a slight decrease from the previous year. Despite this, the overall consumption trend has remained relatively flat, with a peak of $11.3 billion reached in previous years. Germany, France, and Spain remain the largest consumers, accounting for 46 per cent of total EU consumption in 2024. Germany alone consumed 609 million units, followed by France (361 million) and Spain (335 million). Notably, Poland has seen the most significant growth in consumption, with a CAGR of +9.0 per cent from 2013 to 2024.
Imports grow as domestic production dips
While consumption remains steady, the EU's domestic T-shirt production has witnessed a sharp decline. In 2024, production fell to 281 million units, a 19.7 per cent drop from the previous year. This downward trend has been consistent since 2014, when production peaked at 594 million units.
To meet demand, the EU relies heavily on imports. In 2024, T-shirt imports reached 4.3 billion units, despite a -9.9 per cent decrease from the previous year. Over the period from 2013 to 2024, imports increased at an average annual rate of over 2.2 per cent, highlighting the growing dependence on foreign suppliers.
Table: T-shirt imports
|
Year |
Import volume (bn units) |
|
2013 |
3.4 |
|
2014 |
3.5 |
|
2015 |
3.6 |
|
2016 |
3.7 |
|
2017 |
3.8 |
|
2018 |
4 |
|
2019 |
4.2 |
|
2020 |
4.4 |
|
2021 |
4.9 |
|
2022 |
5.3 |
|
2023 |
4.8 |
|
2024 |
4.3 |
Germany, Spain, and France are the largest importers, collectively accounting for 72 per cent of total EU imports. Specifically, Germany imported 879 million units. Spain 608 million units, France 462 million units, Netherlands 405 million units, Italy 366 million units and Poland 362 million units. In fact, Poland has shown the highest growth rate, with a CAGR of over 10.0 per cent from 2013 to 2024.
The Asian share
A significant portion of the EU's T-shirt imports originates from Asia. While precise, publicly available breakdowns for all Asian countries are limited, it's widely acknowledged that China, Bangladesh, India, and Vietnam are key suppliers. Based on general trade data and industry reports, it can be estimated that:
China: Remains a major supplier, though its share may be gradually shifting due to rising labor costs and diversification of sourcing.
Bangladesh: Is a prominent player, known for its large-scale garment manufacturing and competitive pricing.
India: Contributes significantly, with a growing focus on value-added products and sustainable practices.
Vietnam: Is an increasingly important source, benefiting from trade agreements and expanding production capacity.
Rest of Asia: other Southeast Asian nations contribute a growing percentage of the imports.
Estimating Asia’s share
It is estimated that the Asian region accounts for over 60% of the EU's total t-shirt imports. This highlights the EU's reliance on Asian manufacturing for its apparel needs.
Cotton tees dominate the import market, making up 82 per cent of total imports in 2024. This segment has also seen the fastest growth, at a CAGR of over 2.7 per cent from 2013 to 2024. The average import price of a T-shirt in the EU was $4.1 per unit in 2024, down -5.6 per cent from previous year. Prices vary significantly by product type and country of origin.
Dichotomy of EU’s T-shirt consumption
There is apparent dichotomy between EU’s T-shirt consumption and import volumes, where imports significantly exceed consumption. This is due to several factors. Re-exports is one reason. A substantial portion of imported T-shirts may not be intended for final consumption within the EU. Instead, they could be re-exported to countries outside the EU. The EU acts as a major trade hub, with goods flowing in and out. This means that import figures can be inflated by transit goods.
Large retailers and distributors within the EU often import large quantities of T-shirts to maintain inventory and ensure efficient distribution. These imports may not be immediately reflected in consumption figures, as they are stored in warehouses awaiting sale. Therefore, import numbers will reflect the amount of goods coming into the EU, where consumption numbers reflect what is sold to the end user.
Moreover, the modern apparel industry relies on complex global supply chains. T-shirts may be imported in bulk for various stages of processing, such as printing, labeling, or packaging, before being distributed to retailers. This can result in multiple import entries for the same products.
There can also be discrepancies between import and consumption data due to differences in data collection methods, reporting periods, and product categorization. Also, ‘consumption’ can be a hard figure to pin down, as it relies on many different data sources.
Also, retailers sometimes import more goods than they end up selling. This leads to overstocking, and these goods are still counted in import numbers, but have not been consumed. In essence, the higher import volumes don't necessarily mean that EU citizens are consuming more T-shirts than the consumption figures suggest. Rather, it reflects the EU's role in the global trade network, the complexities of modern supply chains, and potential statistical differences.
However, the data clearly indicates a changing EU T-shirt market. While consumption continues to rise, albeit at a slower pace, the decline in domestic production and the rise in imports, particularly from Asia, highlight the increasing globalization of the industry. Factors such as cost competitiveness, supply chain efficiencies, and evolving consumer preferences are likely driving these trends. The market is expected to continue growth, but its reliance on imports, heavily influenced by Asian suppliers, is set to increase, reshaping the industry landscape in the years to come.
