India’s Garment Export Sector Demonstrates Remarkable Resilience Amid Global Challenges
Synopsis
India's ready-made garment exports have shown significant growth despite global market uncertainties. This resilience highlights the industry's ability to adapt and innovate, ensuring a stable future amidst challenges.
Key Takeaways
Positive growth in garment exports despite global uncertainties.
Exports reached $14.53 billion from April 2025 to February 2026.
Geopolitical tensions affecting order flows from major markets.
High freight rates and rising input costs are creating pressures.
Long-term optimism remains strong for India's apparel sector.
New Delhi, March 16 (NationPress) The sector of India’s ready-made garment exports has displayed remarkable resilience, achieving positive growth over the initial 11 months of the current financial year, even amidst the unpredictability of the global market.
Commenting on the recently released garment export statistics, A. Sakthivel, chairman of the Apparel Exports Promotion Council (AEPC), stated, "While there was an 8.6 percent decline in ready-made garment exports for February, the total exports from April 2025 to February 2026 reached $14.53 billion, slightly up from $14.46 billion during the same timeframe last year, marking a marginal growth of 0.51 percent."
This development underscores the sector's ability to remain stable in the face of a challenging global trade landscape. Despite persistent global economic uncertainties and disruptions in supply chains, the ready-made garment industry continues to exhibit resilience, navigating various external challenges, including diminished demand in key markets.
Sakthivel pointed out that geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties have affected order volumes, especially from significant markets like the United States and certain regions in West Asia. These factors have prompted global buyers to adopt more cautious sourcing strategies.
He further remarked, "Looking ahead, the high freight rates and rising input costs are exerting additional pressure on exporters, impacting overall margins and operational strategies for manufacturers and exporters throughout the value chain."
Despite these challenges, the AEPC chairman expressed optimism regarding the long-term prospects of India’s apparel sector, emphasizing that the industry is committed to adapting through market diversification, product innovation, and enhanced supply chain efficiencies. He reaffirmed the sector’s dedication to solidifying India’s standing as a dependable global sourcing hub for apparel.
"We appreciate the government's support during these challenging global trade conditions. Our focus will be on recent Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), leveraging our strengths to maximize export potential," he added.
Point of View
It's essential to highlight the resilience of India's garment export sector. Despite facing numerous challenges, the industry showcases adaptability and commitment to growth, ensuring India's position on the global stage remains strong. This resilience is crucial for the economy, and continued support from the government will be vital for future success.
NationPress
6 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current growth rate of India's garment exports?
India's garment exports recorded a marginal growth of 0.51 percent, with total exports reaching $14.53 billion from April 2025 to February 2026.
What challenges is the garment export sector facing?
The sector is dealing with geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties, high freight rates, and increased input costs, which affect order volumes and operational margins.
How has the government supported the garment export sector?
The government has provided support amidst challenging trade conditions, helping the sector to leverage Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and maximize export potential.
