Global clothing brands turn to India amid unrest in Bangladesh
In the first half of FY25, India’s overall apparel exports reached $11.31 billion, reflecting an 11.58 per cent year-on-year growth.
Major global clothing brands from the US and Europe, including JCPenney, Primark, Tesco, Decathlon, Duns, Kik Clothing, GAP, and Next, are increasingly turning to Indian readymade garment manufacturers and suppliers due to the on-going political unrest in Bangladesh. The crisis in Bangladesh has disrupted the country’s garment export infrastructure, especially due to a looming foreign exchange crisis, as its garment industry heavily relies on fabric imports. As a result, India has emerged as a preferred alternative sourcing destination, leading to a surge in enquiries and export orders from these global brands.
In the first half of FY25, India’s overall apparel exports reached $11.31 billion, reflecting an 11.58 per cent year-on-year growth. Indian exporters are witnessing an increase in global orders, particularly in hubs like Tiruppur, which are expected to see higher shipments in early 2025. This shift highlights India’s growing role as a reliable alternative amidst geopolitical uncertainties.
While the US and EU continue to be India’s largest export markets, emerging markets such as Japan, Korea, UAE, and Mauritius are also showing promise, reflecting the expansion of India’s global footprint. However, India’s apparel export portfolio remains largely cotton-centric, which poses challenges as global demand shifts toward man-made fibre (MMF) garments due to their versatility, durability, and affordability. This shift has led to a misalignment between India’s exports and global demand.
Ahead of the Bharat Tex event from February 12-14, industry leaders emphasise the need for India to focus more on MMF-based garments, sustainable clothing, and innovative products. Additionally, India has opportunities to capture significant market share in categories such as athleisure, outerwear, and bottoms, where it currently lags.
