India’s ready-made garment exports recorded marginal growth during the April 2025 to February 2026 period, reflecting steady performance amid evolving global trade conditions, according to industry data.
“India’s ready-made garment exports declined by 8.6% for the month of February. However, the cumulative exports for the period of April 2025 to February 2026 stood at $14.53 billion compared with $14.46 bilion for the same period of the previous year, reflecting a marginal growth of 0.51%,” said Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) Chairman A. Sakhtivel.
Industry representatives noted that exporters are operating in a dynamic global environment, with demand patterns varying across key markets, including the United States and parts of West Asia. Buyers are adapting sourcing strategies in response to these shifts, influencing order flows across regions.
Sakhtivel added that freight rates and input costs are factors being closely monitored by exporters as they manage production planning and margins. “Going forward, the elevated freight rates and the increased cost of inputs have started placing additional pressure on exporters, affecting overall margins and operational planning for manufacturers and exporters across the value chain,” he said.
Despite these conditions, exporters are continuing to focus on market diversification, product development and operational efficiency. Industry bodies indicate that ongoing trade agreements may also support export momentum in the coming periods.
“We are grateful to the government for all the support amidst the tough global trade environment. We will be focusing on the recent FTAs and try leveraging our strengths to maximise our exports,” Sakhtivel said.
Attribution:
This article is based on reporting published by IndUS Business Journal (ANSI), citing data and statements from the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC).
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