Apparel and Garment Industry and Exports

Introduction

Indian textiles and apparels have a history of fine craftsmanship and global appeal. Cotton, silk and denim from India are highly popular abroad, and with the upsurge in Indian design talent, Indian apparel too has found success in the fashion centres of the world. 

India is the world's second-largest exporter of textiles and apparels, with a massive raw material and manufacturing base. The textile industry is a significant contributor to the economy, both in terms of its domestic share and exports. It contributes about seven per cent to industry output, two per cent to the GDP and 15 per cent to the country's total exports earnings. The sector is one of the largest sources of job creation in the country, employing about 45 million people directly.

Export highlights

• Total textile and clothing exports stood at US$ 37.74 billion in the year 2017-18.
• Ready-made garments (RMG) exports from India stood at US$ 16.65 billion in FY2017-18.
• India’s share in global trade of textiles and apparels is 5 per cent.
• India is the largest cotton producer in the world (35.1 million bales of 170 kg each)

• Fibre exports of the country in 2017-18 were valued at US$ 2,481.90 million as compared to US$ 2,234.96 million in 2016-17.

• Total value of Yarn, Fabrics and Made-ups exports of the country stood at US$ 14.33 billion during 2017-18 as compared to US$ 13.70 billion in 2016-17.
• Main markets for Indian textile and apparel exports are:
  • The US
  • European Union
  • Parts of Asia
  • Middle East
• In the future, India’s apparel exports are expected to increase considerably. Total exports of textiles and apparel are expected to touch US$ 82 billion by 2021 with CAGR of 12.06 per cent.

Recent Development

To promote exports of readymade garments and made Ups, Government of India increased Merchandise Export from India Scheme (MEIS) rates from 4 to 6 per cent under the Mid-Term Review of Foreign Policy 2015-20.

APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL

The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) is the official body of apparel exporters that provides assistance to Indian exporters as well as to importers/international buyers choosing India as their preferred destination for sourcing garments.