NEW DELHI, April 19 – India’s textile and apparel exports rose 6.32% in the financial year ending March 31, 2025, driven largely by a 10.03% surge in apparel shipments, according to a report by the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI). The apparel segment significantly outperformed textile exports, which grew by 3.61% year-on-year during the same period. The performance also outpaced overall merchandise exports, which remained largely flat, the report said.
CITI Chairman Rakesh Mehra attributed the growth to industry resilience, favourable trade policies, and efforts to tap new international markets. “The robust performance in apparel exports and steady growth in textiles amid global headwinds highlight the resilience, adaptability, and global competitiveness of the Indian textile and apparel industry,” he said.
Mehra noted that growing trade alliances and supportive policy decisions have bolstered exporter confidence. He also pointed to geopolitical shifts, including U.S.-China trade tensions, as potential opportunities for Indian exporters.
“With the U.S. seeking to diversify its sourcing base beyond China, India is well-positioned to emerge as a preferred partner,” Mehra said. “However, this will require proactive diplomacy and a stable, favourable tariff regime.” Despite the full-year growth, India’s textile exports in March 2025 fell 5.81% year-on-year, while apparel exports increased by 3.97%. Combined textile and apparel exports for the month registered a 1.63% decline compared to March 2024.
