The Complete Guide to the Garment Export Industry in India

Summary

The garment export industry in India is a global leader, powered by rich textiles, skilled labor, and sustainable practices. From cotton, silk, and denim to ethnic wear and technical textiles, India supplies diverse apparel worldwide. With supportive policies and trusted exporters like NoName, India’s garment export industry continues to grow and dominate global trade.

Introduction: India’s Global Fashion Journey

The garment export industry in India is one of the most powerful sectors of the country’s economy. It’s a story of tradition, skill, and modern technology coming together to make India a trusted global clothing supplier. Indian fabrics like cotton, silk, wool, and man-made fibres are admired worldwide, and our ready-made garments are worn by millions of people every day.

India’s garment export sector is not just about fashion—it is about jobs, trade relationships, and innovation. It employs over 45 million people directly and 100 million indirectly, making it one of India’s largest employers after agriculture. In FY 2025, India exported $36.6 billion worth of textiles and garments, contributing over 8% of the country’s total exports.

This is a complete guide to the garment export industry in India—covering its rich heritage, present growth, and future potential. Whether you’re a fashion brand, a buyer, a startup, or someone curious about global trade, this article will help you understand:

• What fabrics and clothing does India export

• Export growth, challenges, and tariff impacts

• Policies that support exporters

• Global markets, India dominates and wants to grow in

• Big companies, mid-sized firms, and startups are shaping exports

• How import export clearance and logistics services keep trade smooth

This guide is a detailed, easy-to-read reference for anyone interested in working with or learning from India’s booming garment export sector.

Overview of the Garment Export Industry in India

The garment export industry in India is a critical part of the country’s economy. India is the second-largest exporter of textiles and clothing in the world, contributing about 4-5% of global textile and apparel trade. This sector is also one of the largest employment generators, providing jobs to over 45 million people directly and 100 million indirectly.

Garment exports account for approximately 11-12% of India’s total exports. The industry benefits from India’s availability of raw materials like cotton, silk, wool, and man-made fibers, as well as its highly skilled labor force. In 2024, India’s textile and apparel exports were valued at around $35-38 billion, and this figure is expected to grow as global demand for sustainable, ethically-made fashion rises.

Fabrics Exported from India

India’s rich textile tradition and modern manufacturing make it a global leader in fabric exports. The country offers everything from natural fibers to high-performance synthetic materials, catering to luxury brands and mass-market retailers worldwide. Here’s a detailed look at the main fabrics India exports:

Cotton Fabric

• India is the largest producer and exporter of cotton in the world, supplying over 23% of global cotton. Indian cotton fabric is prized for its softness, durability, and versatility, and is in high demand across Europe, the USA, and Asia. Organic cotton from India is especially sought after by brands focusing on sustainable fashion. Cotton exports include both raw cotton yarn and finished fabrics, which are often turned into ready-made garments.

Silk

• India produces about 70% of the world’s raw silk, with Karnataka, Assam, and West Bengal leading silk production. Famous varieties like Mulberry, Tussar, and Eri silk are popular for luxury apparel, scarves, and traditional wear. Indian silk is considered a symbol of elegance and is exported extensively to the Middle East, Europe, and North America.

Wool

• Indian wool exports are well-known for their warmth and quality, especially fine wool from regions like Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir. Woolen fabrics from India are exported to Europe, the USA, and Canada for winter wear like sweaters, coats, and shawls. The demand for Indian wool blends has grown due to its affordability compared to Australian and New Zealand wool.

Man-Made Fibres (MMF)

• India is a major producer of synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, and viscose. These fabrics are widely used in affordable fashion, activewear, and industrial textiles. The man-made fiber segment contributes significantly to the garment export industry in India because of its scalability and lower production costs.

Denim

• India is one of the world’s top denim manufacturers, exporting large quantities to global brands like Levi’s, Wrangler, and H&M. Indian denim mills are equipped with advanced technology, and their fabrics are valued for durability and versatility. India’s denim exports are expected to grow further due to rising global demand for casual and streetwear fashion.

Handloom and Traditional Fabrics

• Handloom fabrics are one of India’s most unique exports, representing centuries of craftsmanship. Fabrics like Banarasi silk, Kalamkari, Ikat, Khadi, and Chanderi are famous worldwide for their artistry and cultural significance. These fabrics are exported as luxury products to niche markets, often fetching high prices due to their exclusivity and eco-friendly production methods.

Jute and Allied Fibre Fabrics

• India is the largest producer of jute in the world, contributing 70% of global production. West Bengal is the heart of India’s jute industry, supplying eco-friendly fabrics, sacking, hessian cloth, and diversified jute products like bags, home décor, and carpets. Global demand for jute is rising because of its sustainable and biodegradable qualities. Jute exports from India were valued at over ₹1,000 crore in FY 2025 (April–October), making it a crucial part of India’s textile export portfolio.

3. Types of Clothing Items Exported from India

The garment export industry in India has built its reputation on its ability to produce a wide variety of apparel to meet global demand. From everyday essentials to luxury designer outfits, Indian exporters serve diverse markets across continents. This versatility is one of India’s biggest strengths, making it a preferred sourcing hub for both small boutique labels and international retail giants.

Let’s explore the main clothing categories India exports in detail:

Casual Wear

Casual wear is the largest clothing export segment from India. Global consumers look for affordable yet high-quality casual clothing, and Indian exporters deliver on both fronts.

• Products: T-shirts, jeans, sweatshirts, casual dresses, hoodies, skirts, and shorts.

• Markets: Primarily exported to the USA, UK, Germany, Australia, and Middle Eastern countries.

• Why India? Indian mills produce millions of meters of cotton and denim annually, making casual wear highly cost-effective. The rise of fast fashion brands has further boosted demand for India-made casual clothing.

Formal Wear

Formal clothing is another stronghold of Indian garment exporters. Indian manufacturers produce high-end formal wear that meets Western sizing, quality standards, and fashion trends.

• Products: Business suits, blazers, dress shirts, trousers, skirts, and formal dresses.

• Markets: Widely exported to Europe, North America, and the Asia-Pacific regions, where formal office attire is in demand.

• Strengths: India’s tailoring expertise ensures precise cuts and elegant finishes, making it a trusted supplier for brands targeting premium and business customers.

Ethnic Wear

India’s ethnic wear exports showcase the country’s cultural richness and are especially popular in markets with large Indian diaspora communities.

• Products: Sarees, lehengas, salwar suits, sherwanis, and kurta-pajamas.

• Markets: The USA, UK, Canada, UAE, and Australia are major destinations.

• Specialty: These garments often feature intricate embroidery, handloom fabrics, and traditional prints, appealing to both South Asians abroad and global consumers interested in cultural fashion. The wedding wear market is particularly lucrative for Indian exporters.

Sportswear and Activewear

The global fitness boom has fueled the demand for stylish yet functional activewear. India has become a competitive exporter in this growing segment.

• Products: Yoga pants, gym leggings, sports bras, tracksuits, performance T-shirts, and athleisure clothing.

• Materials: India exports moisture-wicking fabrics, stretch knits, and technical textiles that meet international sportswear standards.

• Why India? India’s manufacturing capabilities allow brands to launch both performance-focused and trend-driven activewear collections quickly and affordably.

Kids wear

Children’s clothing is a fast-growing segment in global markets due to rising consumer spending on fashion for children.

• Products: Baby rompers, onesies, dresses, t-shirts, school uniforms, and kids’ party wear.

• Markets: USA, UK, Canada, Japan, and Australia lead in kids wear imports.

• Strengths: Indian exporters are known for soft, skin-friendly fabrics and safety-focused manufacturing practices, making them a go-to source for baby clothing.

Winter Wear

India’s winter wear exports include both traditional and modern products, catering to cold-weather regions.

• Products: Jackets, coats, sweaters, shawls, scarves, gloves, and woolen socks.

• Markets: Europe, Canada, Russia, and the USA are major importers.

• Specialties: Indian woolen fabrics, particularly Pashmina shawls and blends, are highly valued for their warmth and craftsmanship. Manufacturers also supply synthetic winter clothing at scale for mass-market retail.

Home Textiles (Linked to Clothing Exports)

While not apparel, home textiles are an important part of India’s export portfolio and closely tied to garment manufacturing.

• Products: Bed linens, towels, curtains, cushion covers, rugs, and table linens.

• Markets: Home textiles from India are popular in the USA and Europe, with Indian companies like Welspun and Trident leading globally.

• Why India? India’s advanced textile manufacturing and eco-friendly production methods make home textiles a major contributor to overall garment export revenue.

This extensive product range demonstrates why India’s garment export industry is considered versatile and resilient. Unlike some competitors that specialize in just one type of clothing, Indian exporters offer everything—from basic T-shirts to premium ethnic wear—making India a one-stop sourcing hub for global retailers.

With strong import export clearance systems, skilled labor, and world-class production facilities, India has positioned itself as a trusted partner for both mass-market and luxury brands. 

Textiles Driving the Garment Export Industry in India

The garment export industry in India is powered by its diverse and innovative textile base. From heritage fabrics to sustainable materials, Indian textiles are admired worldwide for quality and versatility.

Handwoven Textiles

• Traditional fabrics like Chanderi, Ikat, Banarasi, and Pashmina are in high demand for luxury and slow fashion. Handcrafted by skilled artisans, these fabrics symbolize India’s rich heritage and continue to attract global buyers looking for unique, sustainable clothing.

Technical Textiles

• India is making strong progress in technical textiles—fabrics designed for healthcare, automotive, defense, and sportswear. With support from the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM), exports of antimicrobial, fire-retardant, and protective textiles are projected to cross $20 billion by 2030.

Sustainable Textiles

• With rising global demand for eco-friendly clothing, India exports organic cotton, bamboo fabrics, hemp, and recycled polyester. These materials cater to markets in Europe, North America, and Japan, where sustainable textiles are a priority.

Artisanal Textiles

• Indian block prints, tie-dye, embroidery, and hand-stitched fabrics add premium value to garments. Luxury brands prefer these artisanal textiles for their exclusivity and craftsmanship.

In summary: India’s mix of heritage, innovation, and eco-friendly fabrics makes its textiles central to global garment exports, giving the country a unique advantage in both mass and niche markets.

Rise and Fall of Garment Export Trends

The garment export industry in India has experienced several ups and downs over the decades, shaped by global trade policies, fashion trends, and economic events. Understanding these shifts gives a clearer picture of India’s current position as a leading global garment supplier.

1990s–2000s: Liberalization and Growth

• After India’s economic liberalization in 1991, the garment export sector opened its doors to global buyers. With lower trade barriers, affordable labor, and rich textile resources, Indian garment exporters started supplying to major markets like the USA, UK, and Europe. This period marked India’s transformation into a key sourcing destination for international fashion brands.

2010–2019: Fast Fashion Boom

• The global fast fashion industry created massive demand for affordable, high-quality garments. Brands like H&M, Zara, and GAP increased sourcing from India because of its large-scale production capacity, skilled workforce, and diverse fabrics. Garment exports grew steadily, and India became one of the top five textile and clothing exporters in the world during this time.

2020–2021: COVID-19 Disruption

• The pandemic hit the garment manufacturing and export industry hard. Factory shutdowns, shipping delays, and a sharp drop in consumer demand caused a 25% decline in exports. Many exporters faced order cancellations, and import-export clearance services struggled due to global port closures. This period highlighted the need for digital supply chain management and diversified sourcing strategies.

2022–2025: Recovery and Focus on Sustainability

Post-pandemic, India’s garment export industry made a strong comeback. Brands now prioritize sustainable sourcing, ethical manufacturing, and eco-friendly textiles, areas where India excels. Government initiatives like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, improved trade agreements, and investments in import export clearance solutions have supported exporters.

• India’s garment exports are projected to cross $50 billion by 2030, driven by sustainable fashion trends.

• Demand from countries like the USA, UAE, Japan, and Australia is fueling growth.

The garment export sector has shown resilience by adapting to global challenges. With its skilled labor, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable textile production, India is positioned as one of the most reliable clothing export suppliers in the world.

Impact of Tariff Rates on Garment Import-Export

Tariff rates play a crucial role in shaping the garment export industry in India. They directly affect product pricing, global demand, and the competitiveness of Indian garments in international markets. Any increase or decrease in tariffs, or the signing of new trade agreements, can quickly influence exporters’ profits and buyers’ sourcing decisions.

Tariffs in Key Export Markets

United States – 50% Tariff Imposed: As of August 27, 2025, the U.S. has imposed a 50% tariff on all imports from India, including textiles and garments. This significant hike poses challenges for Indian exporters, particularly in apparel categories like cotton shirts, denim, and casual wear.

• Despite higher tariffs, Indian cotton-based and handwoven textiles remain competitive due to quality, durability, and cost-effectiveness.

• However, the increased tariff may reduce profit margins and could cause a 6–9% drop in export revenues in FY2026.

European Union – Preferential Tariffs Under GSP: India benefits from the Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP), which allows reduced or zero tariffs on many garment items exported to Europe.

• This has made India a preferred supplier for European fashion brands.

• The lack of a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) for some products means that Indian exporters still face higher tariffs compared to competitors like Bangladesh and Vietnam, making efficiency and cost management critical.

United Arab Emirates – Low Tariffs and Strategic Hub: The UAE imposes low tariffs on Indian garments, making it one of the fastest-growing export markets.

• It also serves as a re-export hub to other Middle Eastern and African markets.

• Strong trade relations, modern logistics, and favorable tariffs make the UAE a perfect trade partner for India’s garment export industry.

India’s Key Trade Partners for Garment Export

Apart from the USA, EU, and UAE, India is strengthening trade ties with countries that are ideal for garment exports:

• UK & Canada: Negotiations for FTAs aim to reduce tariffs and increase exports of formal wear, casual wear, and sustainable garments.

• Australia & Japan: Demand for high-quality, handwoven, and technical textiles is growing.

• Middle East & Africa: Countries like Saudi Arabia, Oman, Egypt, and South Africa are rapidly increasing imports of Indian ready-made garments.

These countries are strategic partners because they value India’s diverse textiles, sustainable production, and competitive pricing.

How Import Export Clearance Services Help

While tariffs influence costs, smooth import export clearance is equally essential. Top import-export clearance services in India help garment exporters:

• Manage customs documentation efficiently.

• Ensure correct tariff classification.

• Handle duties, taxes, and RoDTEP claims.

• Save time and reduce delays at ports, ensuring on-time delivery to international buyers.

Efficient clearance services are critical for clothing export suppliers like NoName, which consistently deliver high-quality garments to global markets without logistical delays.

Future Outlook

• India is actively negotiating Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with multiple countries to secure better tariff benefits.

• Continued government support for textile exporters through PLI schemes, duty drawback, and export promotion programs will improve competitiveness.

• By combining tariff benefits, strategic trade partnerships, and streamlined import export clearance, India is expected to maintain its position as a top garment exporter, focusing on sustainable, high-quality fabrics for global buyers.

India’s Textile Minister and Government Support

As of 2025, Giriraj Singh serves as the Union Minister of Textiles and has been actively driving policies to strengthen the garment export industry in India. His leadership focuses on boosting global competitiveness, supporting clothing export suppliers, and improving infrastructure and skills across the sector.

1. Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme

• The PLI scheme provides financial incentives to textile and garment manufacturers investing in high-value products, advanced machinery, and export-oriented units.

• It encourages both large companies and mid-sized clothing exporters to enhance production efficiency, reduce costs, and increase global competitiveness.

2. Mega Textile Parks

• The government has developed large-scale textile parks to create clusters of garment manufacturing units.

• These parks improve supply chain efficiency, logistics, and import export clearance, helping exporters deliver products faster and reduce operational costs.

3. Export Promotion Schemes

• Schemes like Duty Drawback, RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products), and MEIS (Merchandise Export Incentive Scheme) provide tax refunds and financial incentives.

• These policies make Indian garments more price-competitive in global markets, encouraging clothing export suppliers to expand their international footprint.

4. Skill Development Programs

• Programs like SAMARTH focus on training workers in modern garment manufacturing, quality control, and textile technology.

• Skilled labor ensures India maintains high-quality standards in ready-made garments, technical textiles, and handwoven fabrics, boosting exports to Europe, the USA, and Middle Eastern countries.

These initiatives have positioned India as a reliable and cost-effective supplier in the global fashion market. From improving import export clearance procedures to providing incentives for eco-friendly and high-value textiles, the government is helping Indian exporters scale efficiently. This support benefits big garment export companies, mid-sized firms, and startups, creating a robust ecosystem that strengthens India’s global trade in garments.

Why Countries Import Garments from India

The garment export industry in India is highly regarded globally, and countries continue to import Indian garments for several strong reasons. India’s combination of skilled labor, diverse textiles, competitive pricing, and sustainable manufacturing makes it a preferred choice for international buyers.

1. Cost-Effective Manufacturing

• India offers lower labor costs and competitive raw material prices compared to many other exporting countries. This makes Indian garments affordable for international buyers without compromising quality. Exporters benefit from economies of scale, enabling clothing export suppliers to deliver both small and large orders efficiently.

2. Skilled Workforce

• India has a vast pool of skilled tailors, designers, weavers, and artisans, capable of producing garments across all categories—casual wear, formal wear, ethnic fashion, activewear, and luxury collections. This talent ensures that international buyers receive high-quality, precision-made clothing that meets global standards.

3. Quality Assurance

• Indian garment exporters follow strict quality control processes, including fabric inspection, stitching checks, and finishing tests. This ensures that exported garments meet international compliance standards, making India a reliable source for brands in the USA, Europe, Middle East, and Australia.

4. Diverse Offerings

• India’s garment industry can cater to almost every type of apparel need. From mass-market basics like T-shirts and denim to luxury sarees, handwoven fabrics, and designer wear, Indian suppliers provide versatile product ranges. This diversity allows foreign buyers to source multiple product categories from a single country, simplifying supply chains.

5. Leadership in Sustainable Fashion

• Sustainability is a growing priority for global buyers, and India is emerging as a leader in eco-friendly apparel sourcing. Garments made from organic cotton, bamboo, hemp, and recycled polyester are increasingly exported to markets in Europe, North America, and Japan. Indian exporters also follow ethical labor practices and energy-efficient production, making them preferred partners for brands focusing on sustainable fashion and corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Top Garment Export Companies in India

The garment export industry in India is supported by a combination of large-scale exporters, mid-sized manufacturers, and innovative startups. These companies ensure that India remains a reliable supplier of high-quality garments to global markets. Among the biggest garment exporters, the following companies stand out:

1. NoName

• NoName is one of India’s leading garment exporters, specializing in small and mid-sized orders for global clients. Known for its Flexi MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity), expertise in import export clearance, and consistent high-quality garments, NoName is a preferred partner for fashion brands seeking flexibility and reliability in production and exports.

2. Shahi Exports

• Shahi Exports is one of India’s largest garment manufacturers and exporters, serving international brands like H&M, Zara, and Nike. The company focuses on large-scale production, advanced manufacturing facilities, and maintaining high standards of quality and compliance.

3. Gokaldas Exports

• Gokaldas Exports has decades of experience in ready-made garment exports, producing millions of garments annually for global fashion brands. Their operations combine modern manufacturing technology with skilled labor, ensuring timely deliveries.

4. Arvind Ltd.

• Arvind Ltd., a textile and apparel giant, supplies garments and fabrics worldwide. Known for its denim, cotton fabrics, and casual wear, Arvind serves both premium and mass-market brands.

5. Raymond Ltd.

• Raymond Ltd. is famous for formal wear, suiting fabrics, and shirting. With a strong export presence in Europe, North America, and the Middle East, Raymond continues to be a trusted supplier of high-quality apparel.

6. Welspun India

• Welspun India, primarily known for home textiles, also exports garments and related textile products. Their large-scale production facilities and global logistics capabilities make them a key player in India’s garment export ecosystem.

Conclusion: India’s Bright Future in Garment Exports

The garment export industry in India continues to be a cornerstone of the country’s economy, combining centuries-old textile traditions with modern manufacturing excellence. With a highly skilled workforce, advanced production facilities, and supportive government policies like the PLI scheme, duty drawback, and RoDTEP, India has built a robust ecosystem for clothing export suppliers. Global demand for Indian garments—ranging from casual wear and ethnic fashion to technical textiles and sustainable apparel—is steadily increasing, making India a reliable partner for brands worldwide.

Among all exporters, NoName stands out as the leading garment export company in India and a trusted choice for small, mid-sized, and large orders. With expertise in import export clearance, Flexi MOQ, and high-quality garment production, NoName ensures timely delivery and world-class standards.

📞 Contact NoName today to partner with India’s finest garment exporter and elevate your brand with premium fabrics, sustainable production, and unparalleled craftsmanship.

WhatsApp: +91-9717 508 508

Email: hello@nonameglobal.com

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