How Did India's Apparel Exports Surge in April Thanks to the US Market?
Synopsis
April 2025 saw India's Textile & Apparel exports soar, driven by a remarkable surge in the apparel sector. With a significant 14.43 percent growth compared to last year, industry leaders are optimistic about future prospects, particularly with the impact of the new India-UK Free Trade Agreement. Explore the driving forces behind this growth!
Key Takeaways
India's T&A exports grew by 7.45% in April 2025.
The apparel sector saw a 14.43% year-on-year growth.
Increased shipments to the U.S. were a major factor in this growth.
The India-UK FTA is expected to improve market access.
Total exports surged by 12.7% to $73.80 billion .
New Delhi, May 16 (NationPress) India's Textile & Apparel (T&A) exports have shown a remarkable increase of 7.45 percent in April 2025 compared to the same month last year. This growth trend is significantly attributed to the apparel sector, which experienced an impressive 14.43 percent year-on-year growth, as indicated by the data from the Ministry of Commerce.
The Chairman of the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI), Rakesh Mehra, stated: "The current 14.43 percent growth in apparel exports appears to be predominantly driven by heightened shipments to the United States, following the implementation of reciprocal tariff measures by the U.S. administration."
Mehra also expressed his support for the recent signing of the India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which is anticipated to enhance market access for Indian products in the UK, fostering optimism for future growth in T&A exports.
In April 2025, India's textile exports climbed by approximately 2.61 percent compared to the same month last year, with apparel exports reaching $ 1.37 billion, up from $ 1.2 billion in April of the previous year.
The figures for April suggest a swift acceleration in the growth rate, with the Indian T&A sector recording a 6.3 percent increase during the 2024-25 fiscal year compared to 2023-24.
Overall, India's total exports of goods and services surged by 12.7 percent in April, hitting the $73.80 billion mark compared to $65.48 billion in the same month last year, despite ongoing global economic uncertainties sparked by U.S. tariff hikes, according to the Commerce Ministry's recent report.
Point of View
The consistent growth in India's Textile & Apparel exports reflects a resilient economy adapting to global changes. The positive response from the U.S. market, coupled with new trade agreements, positions India favorably in the global textile landscape. Continued support for the sector is essential for sustained growth.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the growth percentage of India's T&A exports in April 2025?
India's Textile & Apparel exports grew by 7.45 percent in April 2025 compared to the same month last year.
Which segment contributed most to the export growth?
The apparel segment contributed significantly, with a robust growth of 14.43 percent year-on-year.
What factors drove the increase in apparel exports?
The increase was mainly due to higher shipments to the United States following new tariff measures.
How does the India-UK Free Trade Agreement affect exports?
The FTA is expected to enhance market access for Indian products in the UK, boosting T&A exports.
What was the total value of apparel exports in April 2025?
Apparel exports reached $1.37 billion in April 2025, up from $1.2 billion in the same month last year.
