The Indian textile industry is experiencing a revival, with exports increasing by 6.93 per cent between April and November 2024. The Gujarat-based textile sector has also seen a surge in export orders, highlighting its growing prominence.
According to data from the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI), textile exports grew by 3.90 per cent, reaching US $ 13,478 million, while apparel exports increased significantly by 11.39 per cent, totaling US $ 9,853 million. Despite Indian cotton prices remaining higher than international rates, the country’s textile and apparel exports recorded notable growth.
In November 2024, Indian textile exports were 3 per cent higher compared to the same month last year, while apparel exports surged by 8 per cent. Rahul Shah, co-chairman of the textile task force at the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), noted that international crises, particularly in Bangladesh, have led to order shifts to India. Idle garment capacities are now fully utilized, with significant orders received by manufacturers in South India and Gujarat.
Industry experts attribute this growth to the increasing dollar value, enhancing India’s export competitiveness. Export demand from Southeast Asia, Europe, and the USA continues to rise. Shah emphasized the need for improved cotton yields to boost cotton yarn exports, as spinning units in Gujarat operate at full capacity amid stable yarn prices.
