The Indian textile and apparel sector, including handicrafts, displayed remarkable resilience in the first half of FY 2025–26, despite facing persistent global headwinds and tariff-related challenges in several major markets.
India’s global exports of textiles, apparel, and made-ups grew by 0.1% during April–September 2025 compared with the corresponding period in 2024, according to data released by the Government.
Some of India’s key export destinations reported healthy growth during the period. Exports to the United Arab Emirates rose by 14.5%, while shipments to the United Kingdom grew by 1.5%. Exports to Japan increased by 19%, to Germany by 2.9%, to Spain by 9%, and to France by 9.2%.
In addition to traditional markets, several emerging destinations registered notable expansion. Exports to Egypt increased by 27%, to Saudi Arabia by 12.5%, and to Hong Kong by an impressive 69%, underscoring India’s growing footprint in non-traditional geographies.
Overall, around 111 markets contributed export earnings of US $ 8.48 billion during April–September 2025, compared with US $ 7.72 billion in the same period of the previous year — reflecting a 10% rise and an absolute increase of US $ 770.3 million. The main drivers of this growth were ready-made garments (RMG) of all textiles, which grew by 3.42%, and jute, which saw growth of 5.56%.
The Government noted that this performance highlights the sector’s adaptability and competitiveness amid ongoing global uncertainties. It added that India’s continued expansion into non-traditional markets reinforces the Government’s policy focus on export diversification, value addition, and deeper integration into global value chains.
