The Indian textile and apparel industry is a significant part of the national economy, having a rich heritage and directly employing over 45 million people. Globally, India is recognized as the world's sixth-largest exporter of textiles and apparel, a position earned due to the industry's craftsmanship and quality1.
If you’re looking to export textiles from India, this guide will give you a clear roadmap. By discovering the vast global opportunities, key export markets, and the specialized logistical solutions available, you can successfully expand your textile business internationally.
The market size of the textile industry in India is poised for growth, with the apparel and textiles export projected to reach US$350 billion by 20302. This robust growth trajectory aligns perfectly with the worldwide trend: the global textile market is projected to hit US$1.61 trillion by 2033, mainly driven by urbanization and rising disposable incomes in emerging economies3.
India has unique advantages that make it globally competitive and ideal for sustained worldwide shipping of textiles:
Aside from initiatives coursed through the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), the government has introduced support schemes, such as the PM MITRA Parks, which offer the following advantages:
India's strengths in the global textile arena are evident in the country’s yearly export volume. The sector is dominated by a few key categories, with ready-made garments leading the way, making up the largest share of exports at 41%5. Following close behind are cotton textiles and man-made textiles. Together, these core commodities showcase India's extensive manufacturing capabilities.
The prominence of ready-made garments that are exported from India is a testament to the industry's successful integration of heritage with contemporary fashion. Moreover, apparel manufacturing in India stands out globally for expertly integrating traditional craftsmanship, such as intricate embroidery and authentic block printing, into modern cuts and styles.
This fusion wear, from chic tunics with Indian motifs to contemporary dresses made from handwoven fabrics, appeals to global consumer preferences for unique, high-quality, and culturally rich clothing. This ability to deliver both traditional charm and modern flair makes Indian garments a highly sought-after product worldwide.
India also ranks among the world’s largest producers of cotton textiles, accounting for approximately 23% of global output6. After all, the cotton textile industry in India has a deep history, with roots stretching back thousands of years.
Today, the industry is embracing modernization through tech integration, a strong focus on sustainability, and robust e-commerce expansion.
The cotton textile industry produces a variety of fabrics available for export:
Man-made textiles constitute a crucial segment of the industry, currently making up around 75% of the total fiber consumption globally7. India is also a key player in this sector, being the second-largest producer of polyester and viscose globally.
Aside from man-made textiles, India also produces and exports a wide range of synthetic fibers, including nylon, acrylic, polypropylene, and aramids. These versatile materials are highly valued for their durability, cost-effectiveness, and specialized performance characteristics, making them highly desirable for everything from high-performance sportswear to affordable fast-fashion garments.
And because India has consistently demonstrated strength in manufacturing these goods, as an exporter exploring this sector, you can ensure a steady, robust supply of innovative man-made fibers for international delivery.
Backed by the world’s third-largest sheep population, estimated at US$74.26 million, India ranks as the ninth-largest wool producer globally8. Moreover, the country's wool industry focuses on three primary categories:
This output is channeled directly into high-value finished goods, achieving strong results in worldwide shipping:
India is recognized as the world's second-largest producer of silk, a product synonymous with luxury and fine craftsmanship. In FY24, for instance, the country’s export of silk and silk products totaled US$244.27 million9.
What’s more, India exports four types of natural silks (Mulberry, Eri, Tasar, and Muga) in various forms, including raw silk, natural silk yarn, fabrics, and ready-made garments. These luxurious products are in high demand across more than 30 countries, with top importers including the UAE, USA, China, UK, and Italy.
The global market for Indian textiles is highly concentrated, with the USA and the EU serving as the largest export destinations and together accounting for nearly 47% of total international delivery volumes10. Other major export markets for India include the UK, UAE, and Germany.
If you’re an exporter looking to explore these markets, consider these tips to ensure success:
With the high demands in the global apparel and textile industries, it’s crucial for exporters in India to ensure rapid turnaround and delivery. To achieve this, you need to opt for reliable and professional international shipping services that offer reasonable charges.
When you choose DHL Express, you can expect the speed and reliability to ensure parcels containing samples and finished goods meet tight fashion cycles globally. As a logistics and courier service leader, we can also simplify the complex export journey by managing specialized customs clearance services and compliance, handling intricate documentation, and navigating varied international regulations. This dedicated support enables your manufacturing business to focus on core production and quality, secure in the knowledge that our services reliably manage every border crossing.
Ready to ensure your goods move with speed and precision? Open a business account with DHL Express today and access a world of export opportunities.
India exports a diverse range of textiles, with readymade garments (apparel) accounting for 41% of total exports. Other key exports include cotton textiles, man-made fibers like polyester and viscose, high-quality woolen carpets, and specialized silk products.
The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) is the official body supporting Indian garment exports. It acts as a one-stop shop, offering members market intelligence, technical guidance, and trade statistics. The AEPC also promotes Indian apparel and textile exports by identifying new markets and leading international trade delegations.
The USA and the EU are currently the best-established markets for apparel exports from India, together accounting for nearly 47% of total international delivery volumes. Secondary markets like the UK, UAE, and Germany also present strong, specialized growth opportunities.
India is famous for textile exports due to a rich heritage of craftsmanship and a unique combination of factors. This includes a fully integrated value chain from fiber to finished goods, a large and skilled workforce, and high-quality output across both natural and synthetic fibers.
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