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The global apparel trade and retail sector continues to evolve, balancing between post-pandemic recovery, macroeconomic uncertainties, and changing consumer behavior. Wazir Advisors July 2025 Apparel Trade & Retail Update reveals a complex picture: while some markets are charting strong growth, others are seeing sluggish demand and competitive pressures. From a rebound in UK imports to Vietnam's booming export performance and India’s growing domestic retail, the global apparel map is dotted with diverse paths.
Apparel Imports: UK moves ahead, US stalls
May 2025 witnessed sharply contrasting import trends among major apparel-consuming nations. The United States, traditionally the world’s largest apparel importer, saw its imports decline 8 per cent year-on-year, falling to $5.5 billion. This downturn reflects persistent inflationary pressure, inventory adjustments by large retailers, and a slight consumer pullback amid economic uncertainty.
In contrast, the European Union recorded a 4 per cent YoY increase in apparel imports, touching $7.2 billion. The EU’s demand resilience is likely tied to a strong summer fashion cycle, restocking across mass-market retailers, and improved consumer sentiment in economies like Germany and France.
The UK, however, emerged as the star performer. With a 36 per cent YoY increase in apparel imports, reaching $1.9 billion, the UK appears to be in the middle of a fast-fashion revival, boosted by aggressive buying from e-commerce giants and early festive season shipments.
Meanwhile, Japan showed a 7 per cent YoY growth in apparel imports to $1.6 billion, indicating stable recovery in consumer demand and a return to workwear and occasion wear purchases.
Apparel Exports: Vietnam shines, Bangladesh slips
In June 2025, China maintained its dominance as the world’s top apparel exporter, clocking $14.8 billion, a 2 per cent YoY increase. While this growth is modest, it signals resilience amid geopolitical scrutiny and rising production costs. Chinese exporters continue to focus on high-margin segments and nearshoring strategies.
Vietnam, meanwhile, posted the strongest export performance among major Asian exporters, registering 18 per cent YoY growth to reach $3.3 billion. The country is reaping the benefits of free trade agreements, relocation of manufacturing from China, and investments in sustainable production.
On the flip side, Bangladesh faced a setback, with exports dipping 7 per cent YoY to $2.8 billion. The decline may be attributed to energy shortages, compliance pressures, and cooling orders from Europe. Concerns about cost competitiveness and environmental compliance continue to challenge the industry.
India, however, saw its exports hold steady at $1.3 billion, showing no YoY change. While not a decline, the stagnant figure underlines India's ongoing struggle with price competitiveness and supply chain fragmentation despite global buyers’ interest in supplier diversification.
Retail Markets: India’s boom, UK’s digital edge, US recovery
On the retail front, apparel sales showed encouraging trends in most major economies during June 2025, signalling firm consumer confidence and gradual demand normalization.
In the US, apparel and home furnishing store sales rose 2 per cent YoY, reflecting steady foot traffic in physical stores. Though not dramatic, the rise indicates that brick-and-mortar retail is holding its ground against e-commerce, supported by ongoing promotions and early back-to-school demand.
The UK saw similar store-based growth, with June apparel store sales reaching £4.7 billion, a 2 per cent YoY increase. More notably, e-commerce clothing sales grew by 2 per cent in Q2 2025, a sign that online fashion retail continues to mature even as pandemic-era spikes normalize.
India, however, emerged as the most dynamic retail market in the current update. June 2025 apparel retail sales jumped 10 per cent over the previous year, pushed up by a young consumer base, digital payments penetration, and a flourishing ethnic and value-fashion ecosystem. The growth, spread across Tier-I and Tier-II cities, reflects strong domestic consumption fundamentals.
The bigger picture, world of divergence
The global apparel industry is no longer moving in lockstep. Instead, it is a story of regional divergence, multi-speed recovery, and structural adaptation.
• Manufacturing centers like Vietnam are growing, due to its agility and policy support.
• Traditional giants such as Bangladesh face hurdles, requiring urgent modernization and energy resilience.
• Consumer markets like India are witnessing a domestic boom that could reshape sourcing and retail strategies.
• Developed markets, including the US and UK, show cautious optimism, with a strong tilt toward omnichannel and discount-led buying patterns.
As supply chains rewire and retailers recalibrate, July 2025’s data is a timely reminder that agility, digital adaptation, and sustainability will define future winners in global apparel.
Outlook for Q3 2025
With peak holiday seasons on the horizon in the West and festive buying cycles beginning in South Asia, the third quarter is likely to bring more pronounced trends. Stakeholders across sourcing, retail, and logistics will be watching closely to see whether these early signals of growth sustain—or fragment further.
In a fragmented but fast-evolving market, one thing is clear: apparel’s global footprint is shifting, and those who adapt fastest will define the next chapter of fashion commerce.
As a direct consequence of a pre-announced steep US tariff hike, Bangladesh apparel exporters are facing intense pricing pressure from European buyers. Set to take effect from August 1, this looming tariff is pushing Bangladeshi manufacturers to aggressively seek new orders in the European Union to fill production gaps.
Most US buyers are currently hesitant to place new orders due to the uncertainty surrounding the potential tariff increases. This reluctance has prompted thousands of Bangladeshi exporters to turn more actively to the EU market, where, according to industry insiders, European buyers are capitalizing on the situation by demanding lower product prices.
SM Majedur Rahim, Director, Giant Group, notes, orders from US buyers have halved. Even when US buyers are placing orders, the volumes are small. Some have already offered lower prices for repeat orders, citing tariff pressure. It's unfair to expect exporters to bear the cost of tariffs, he states. Major EU retailers like H&M and Inditex, who also have significant US business, have reportedly cut their order volumes by 10-20 per cent in anticipation of the tariffs.
A 35 per cent reciprocal tariff on Bangladeshi exports to the US is expected. This means that if the proposed tariff is implemented, the total tariff burden on Bangladeshi goods in the US could rise to a challenging 50.5 per cent, up from the current average of 15.5 per cent. European buyers are leveraging this uncertainty to renegotiate and reduce apparel prices. For instance, Fazlee Shamim Ehsan, CEO, Fatullah Apparels, shares, a Dutch buyer offered 25-30 cents less per unit on a $750,000 order, citing ‘Trump-era tariff policies,’ a price he couldn't accept, making factory operations difficult.
The United States is Bangladesh's largest single export destination, accounting for $5.05 billion- or 58 per cent - of Bangladesh's total exports in FY25. Over 800 Bangladeshi firms rely on the US for more than half their exports, making them highly vulnerable.
Industry leaders fear that if Bangladesh faces higher tariff rates than competitors like Vietnam, India, and Pakistan, it will severely impact their export sector, risking millions of jobs and potential labor unrest. This ripple effect from US tariffs, combined with shrinking orders from non-traditional markets like India and South Korea due to other barriers, poses a significant threat to Bangladesh's market competitiveness.
The textile and apparel sector in Sri Lanka is reinforcing its commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) transparency with the launch of a significant new sustainability program. The Improving Transparency for Sustainable Business (ITSB) initiative aims to embed world-class ESG reporting practices, enhancing the industry's resilience, competitiveness, and global standing.
Jointly launched by the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) South Asia, the Sustainable Development Council (SDC) of Sri Lanka, the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), and the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) of Sri Lanka, the ITSB program is backed by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). It focuses on building long-term capacity for textile and apparel companies, from large multinationals to small and medium-sized enterprises.
Participating companies will receive comprehensive training on utilizing the globally recognized GRI Standards to transparently report on crucial sustainability topics. These include labor practices, climate impact, energy use, economic impact, and waste management. Beyond direct business engagement, the initiative will also collaborate closely with national and international stakeholders, including regulators, investors, industry bodies, worker groups, media, and academia.
The inaugural capacity building session, held on July 16, 2025, at Courtyard by Marriott Colombo, saw strong attendance from public and private sector leaders, including EDB Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe, JAAF Secretary General Yohan Lawrence, and SDC Director Jeevanthie Senanayake.
Rahul Singh, Senior Manager, South Asia, GRI, emphasized the program's significance: "ITSB is designed to elevate sustainability practices and transparency across South Asia’s textile and apparel sector, positioning it for long-term resilience, profitability, and global leadership." He added that adopting GRI Standards boosts corporate transparency, investor confidence, international positioning, and regulatory preparedness.
This program aligns with Sri Lanka’s Action Plan to Develop Inclusive and Sustainable Business Capacities and comes as global buyers increasingly prioritize traceability and ethical sourcing. Emerging regulations, such as the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), are further reshaping international trade dynamics.
Highlights from the session included a preview of the draft GRI Textiles and Apparel Sector Standard (2025), interactive workshops, and a high-level roundtable discussion on integrating ESG with business, policy, and investment goals. Notably, the ITSB initiative is set to expand to India and Bangladesh later this year, making Sri Lanka a regional early mover.
With apparel accounting for over 40 per cent of Sri Lanka’s total export revenue and employing over 350,000 people, the ITSB represents a strategic move towards a future-ready, consciously sustainable industry.
Set to deliver a dynamic industry platform at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre from September 3-5, 2025, Cinte Techtextil China has already confirmed exhibitors from 12 countries and regions, showcasing a full spectrum of technical textiles and nonwovens across 12 application areas.
A significant highlight for 2025 is the debut of the Textile Chemicals and Dyes Zone. This new product category and dedicated zone will host renowned companies like CHT Germany GmbH (Germany) and Michelman Inc (USA), opening new business avenues for applications in sports and leisure, safety and protection, industrial protection, and construction. Other notable exhibitors in this zone include Dupré Minerals (UK), showcasing their flame-retardant Micashield Vermiculite Dispersion, and China's Shanghai Xinnuo Chemical and Yancheng Ruize Color Masterbatch, presenting innovative water-based emulsified waxes and high-quality masterbatches, respectively.
The fair's International Hall (W5) will feature reputable European and German Zones, offering valuable expertise and opportunities to trade visitors. These zones will host leading companies presenting their quality, high-tech products as Europe's technical textile and nonwoven production returns to pre-pandemic levels. Returning brands include Switzerland's EMS-GRILTECH and UK's Fibre Extrusion Technology, alongside new exhibitors such as Serel Industrie (Belgium) with X-ray technology for textile production, and Proton Product International (UK), a manufacturer of industrial instrumentation. The German Zone will welcome giants like Brueckner Textile Technologies (energy-efficient finishing machines), Lindauer DORNIER (weaving machines for high-performance fabrics), and newcomer Wetekam Group (technical monofilaments).
Capitalizing on market demand, Cinte Techtextil China will also feature a strong contingent of Mobiltech (automotive textile) exhibitors. Global players like China's Eastex Industrial Science And Technology, Belgium's Picanol, and Germany's Rowa Group will be present. Malaysian manufacturer JCT Industries will showcase its PVA products for construction and automotive uses, emphasizing sustainable manufacturing processes utilizing local geothermal resources. China's Jiangsu HongFeng Thread Technology will highlight its certified polyester and nylon sewing threads for automotive and other industrial applications.
The fair's comprehensive product categories span the entire technical textile industry, from upstream technology and raw materials to finished fabrics and chemical solutions, ensuring an effective business platform for all participants. Cinte Techtextil China 2025 is organized by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT, and the China Nonwovens & Industrial Textiles Association (CNITA).
Flagship Company of the Trident Group, Trident Limited reported a consolidated revenue of Rs 1,727 crore in Q1, FY26. The group’s consolidated EBITDA increased by 18.12 per cent Q-o-Q and 29.85 per cent Y-o-Y to Rs 312 crore. Consolidated net profit increased by 4.89 per cent Q-o-Q and 89.39 per cent Y-o-Y to Rs140 crore,
Trident also strengthened its financial position, reducing its net debt to Rs 879 crore as of June 30, 2025, down from Rs 910 crore on March 31, 2025, a reduction of Rs 31 crore. The company maintained a healthy Debt-Equity Ratio of 0.35 and a Current Ratio of 1.87, demonstrating robust financial health despite global economic fluctuations.
Deepak Nanda, Managing Director of Trident Limited, states, even amidst challenging macroeconomic conditions, the company has showcased quarter-on-quarter growth in terms of profitability.
Nanda points out, the company’s focus on innovative product pipelines aligned with evolving consumer preferences, combined with positive tailwinds from recent US tariff revisions and new FTA between India and the UK, positions it favorably to capitalize on emerging opportunities. He affirms Trident's ongoing commitment to sustainable growth and operational excellence, emphasizing future focus on ‘improving their volumes, value-added products and ESG.
Headquartered in Ludhiana, Punjab, Trident Limited is the flagship company of the Trident Group, an Indian business conglomerate with a global presence. It operates as a vertically integrated manufacturer across three major segments: textiles (yarn, bath and bed linen), paper (wheat straw-based), and chemicals, with manufacturing facilities located in Punjab and Madhya Pradesh.
Trident's products, including yarn, bath and bed linen, and paper, have garnered global recognition, serving millions of customers worldwide. The company is one of India's largest players in home textiles, supplying to national, captive, and retailer-owned brands. Trident is widely acclaimed for its product quality, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship, earning awards from customers, vendors, and government entities.
The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), with support from the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, under the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM), successfully hosted a one-day Conference on Technical Textiles in Ludhiana. Held at the CICU Complex, the event brought together industry stakeholders, policymakers, innovators, and entrepreneurs to discuss ‘Market Growth, Challenges, Opportunities & Way Forward’ for the sector.
Ajay Gupta, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, emphasized on the policy initiatives and national goals under NTTM. He highlighted the strategic importance of positioning Ludhiana as a crucial hub for technical textiles. Ashok Malhotra, Mission Director, NTTM, provided an overview of the mission's progress, noting that since its launch in FY21 with an outlay of Rs. 1,480 crore, 168 R&D projects have been sanctioned with a grant of Rs 519 crore, 31 patents applied, 20 startups approved with a grant of Rs 10.34 crore, and 500 people trained across 16 skill development courses.
Rahul Chaba, Additional CEO, Invest Punjab, showcased Punjab's strengths as a textile hub, citing its integrated value chain, skilled workforce, competitive power tariffs, and world-class infrastructure. He highlighted the state's progressive industrial policies and the ‘Fast Track Punjab’ single-window portal designed for investor-friendly clearances, reaffirming Ludhiana's role in India's textile growth story.
Presentations from industry experts delved into various aspects of technical textiles. Sunil Kumar Puri discussed the transformative potential of flat-bed knitting machines for 2D and 3D structures in medical, automotive, and protective gear, emphasizing their role in sustainable, waste-minimizing production. Debabrata Ghosh, Oerlikon Textile India. highlighted their innovations in materials and manufacturing for high-demand industries like aerospace and automotive, focusing on high-performance and nonwoven textiles.
Akhil Seth pointed to India's strong potential in Packtech, Meditech, and Geotech, advocating for regional Centers of Excellence in Ludhiana and increased industry-academia collaboration. Rajiv Sajdeh emphasized the underutilized potential of natural fibers like wool in technical textiles, citing its flame resistance and sustainability. He called for policy revisions, better certification access, and a ‘TechTex Green Compliant’ certification for recyclers to boost circularity.
The conference also featured discussions on BIS standards, SIDBI support for MSMEs, circular economy models, and green certifications, with notable participation from the Ministry of MSME and Textile Commissioner’s Office. Discussions also focused on developing a future-ready talent pipeline for the sector.
Moderated by Rakesh Kumar Sangrai, Director, PHDCCI, the event was attended by over 150 delegates including large textile companies, MSMEs, consultants, R&D institutions, and academia. The conference concluded with a strong consensus to fortify Ludhiana’s position in India’s technical textile ecosystem through innovation, sustainability, and skill development, aligning with the NTTM vision for a resilient and globally competitive industry.
Polyester, once a humble synthetic, is now at the forefront of textile innovation, driven by demands for durability, affordability, and sustainability. Asia, particularly China and India, is spearheading this transformation, dominating global production and investment.
Top Players: Asia's grip on polyester capitalization
Asian companies command the top ranks in the global polyester fiber industry by capitalization, as shown below:
Table: Top global polyester fiber companies by capitalization (2025)
Rank Company Country Capitalization ($ bn) 1 Sinopec China 22.6 2 Zhejiang Hengyi Group Co., Ltd. India* 16.7 3 Reliance Industries Limited India 14.8 4 Hengli Group China 13.4 5 Indorama Ventures Thailand 10.5 6 Tongkun Group Co., Ltd. China 9.6 7 Shenghong Holding Group China 8.8 8 SASA Polyester Sanayi Turkey 5.2 9 Xinfengming Group Co., Ltd. China 4.2 10 Nan Ya Plastics Corporation Taiwan 3.6
Note: Zhejiang Hengyi operates largely in China but has growing operations and significant market presence in India.
Asia-Pacific: The fiber nucleus
The Asia-Pacific region accounted for over 60 per cent of global polyester fiber production in 2012, and in 2025, it remains the fastest-growing market. This growth is due to booming sectors such as carpets & rugs, fiberfill, apparel, industrial textiles, nonwoven fabrics, and geotextiles.
India's Reliance Industries ($14.8 billion market cap) is a leader in recycled polyester and technical fibers, while China's Sinopec ($22.6 billion) is the world's largest player, with diverse operations spanning petroleum and synthetic fibers.
Polyester’s expanding horizons
India's polyester industry is no longer just riding the coattails of global demand—it is actively reshaping the future of synthetic textiles through innovation, strategic market shifts, and a renewed focus on sustainability. Powerful growth drivers are pushing the sector into a new era, while emerging applications are steadily expanding polyester’s utility beyond traditional boundaries.
At the heart of this expansion lies the shift towards environmentally conscious production. As sustainability becomes a non-negotiable imperative across industries, the rise in eco-friendly and recycled polyester has positioned India as both a responsible producer and a competitive exporter. Recycled PET bottles are now being transformed into high-performance fibers, aligning environmental goals with commercial scalability. Indian manufacturers are investing in closed-loop systems and green technologies, a move that not only reduces dependency on virgin petrochemicals but also enhances export credibility in eco-sensitive markets like Europe and North America.
Simultaneously, polyester is increasingly replacing natural fibers such as cotton and nylon. This substitution is due to the material’s inherent advantages—lightness, durability, and versatility. In a world facing erratic climate conditions and shrinking arable land, the reliability and affordability of synthetics provide manufacturers with a stable and cost-efficient alternative. Polyester’s ability to mimic natural textures while offering superior moisture management and wear resistance makes it a popular choice across both fashion and functional apparel.
Beyond clothing, the growth in nonwoven and technical textiles has also boosted polyester’s footprint. India is witnessing rising demand for polyester-based textiles in home furnishings—from curtains and upholstery to carpets—where the fabric’s strength and longevity make it ideal for daily use. Likewise, the automotive sector is increasingly turning to polyester for car seat fabrics, roof liners, and insulation panels, while the medical industry is tapping into its potential for sterile, durable, and hypoallergenic textile solutions.
Moreover, cost competitiveness continues to be a decisive advantage. In a price-sensitive market like India, polyester remains more affordable than many natural fibers, without compromising on performance. This positions it as a go-to material for brands and consumers alike.
As the industry evolves, new applications are pushing the boundaries of what polyester can achieve. One such frontier is in the medical field, where hollow polyester fibers are being engineered into advanced medical textiles used for filtration, wound care, and surgical applications. Protective clothing for industrial and military use is another emerging segment, leveraging polyester’s strength and adaptability for high-performance wear. Perhaps most notably, polyester geotextiles are gaining traction in large-scale infrastructure projects, offering reinforcement and stabilization in road, rail, and irrigation developments.
Together, these drivers and applications not only underscore polyester’s adaptability but also signal a shift in the textile economy—one where innovation, sustainability, and multifunctionality are knitting together a new narrative for synthetic fibers in India and beyond.
Challenges on the growth path
India’s polyester sector, while ready to take off, faces mounting challenges that threaten its long-term growth. Chief among these is the volatility of raw material prices, especially those tied to crude oil, which creates uncertainty in production costs.
Environmental regulations are also tightening, with increasing scrutiny on polyester waste, emissions, and microplastic pollution. Complying with global standards demands significant investment in cleaner, greener technologies.
The industry’s fragmented supply chain adds another layer of complexity, spurring a wave of mergers and acquisitions as companies strive for scale and efficiency. Yet, consolidation alone isn't enough.
Sustainability is now a non-negotiable priority. Adopting circular economy practices—like recycled inputs and green manufacturing—is essential not just for compliance, but for future-proofing the industry against climate risks and evolving consumer expectations.
Leaders in action
• Reliance Industries (India): Focuses on diversified integration from petrochemicals to fibers, with major investments in recycling and R&D.
• Zhejiang Hengyi (China/India): A rapidly expanding regional giant with significant government backing and expansion into Southeast Asia.
• Indorama Ventures (Thailand): Pursues global acquisitions in PET and polyester chains, emphasizing sustainability and recycled PET fibers.
The road ahead
The next decade will see Asia-Pacific continue its dominance in polyester production. Sustainability and recycling will be key differentiators, with success hinging on investments in green technologies, biodegradable synthetics, and circular product life cycles. Market consolidation is also expected to accelerate.
Polyester's rebirth, a sustainable future
Polyester's resurgence is a direct response to evolving global textile needs. As cotton becomes more costly and less sustainable, recycled, functional, and engineered polyester variants are poised to define the future of fiber innovation. The leading companies are not just manufacturing powerhouses; they are driving innovation, setting sustainability standards, and enabling the global fiber economy
UK’s premier trade show for home, gift, and fashion, Spring Fair has announced the 12 winners of its ongoing collaboration with retail magnate Theo Paphitis and his celebrated #SBS Small Business Sunday initiative. The fair is scheduled to be held from February 1 - 4, 2026, at the NEC Birmingham.
Since their partnership began in 2018, Spring & Autumn Fair, in partnership with #SBS, has provided crucial support to over 70 small businesses. This support comes in the form of invaluable exposure to thousands of retail buyers, offering a significant platform for growth.
A champion for small businesses A renowned retail entrepreneur and staunch advocate for small businesses, Theo Paphitis, says, every year, we offer our winners more and more opportunities alongwith an opportunity to win 12 free stands at Spring Fair. This allows them to garner attention for their business and find new paths to growth.
Meet the inspirational winners
The 12 new inspirational winners represent a diverse array of innovative products and services:
• Pickle: A charming, Founded by Claire, a mother of four, in 2016,UK-designed clothing brand Pickle offers stylish garments for babies, kids, and adults.
• Little Moments Melts: This company creates calming ambiance through scent, offering hand-poured wax melts and home fragrances crafted with natural ingredients and thoughtful design.
• Floral Lifestyle: Inspired by nature and sustainability, Floral Lifestyle curates eco-conscious gifts and lifestyle products designed to bring joy and mindfulness into the home.
• The Bridgefield Candle Company: Blending luxury with craftsmanship, Bridgefield Candle Co produces hand-poured candles using vegan-friendly soy wax, featuring sophisticated fragrances and stylish designs.
• GoGiftid (RYG Ltd): GoGiftid provides a unique QR code-based gifting experience, enabling users to pre-purchase thoughtful gifts that recipients can conveniently redeem later.
• Boom Sauce: An award-winning hot sauce brand, Boom Sauce brings flavor, fire, and personality to kitchens across the UK with its handcrafted sauces made from fresh, high-quality ingredients.
• The Stable Soap Company: Handcrafting artisanal soaps and skincare products using natural, sustainable ingredients, The Stable Soap Company celebrates wellbeing and the essence of the English countryside.
• Jo Couch: An illustrator and designer known for her playful, bold artwork, Jo Couch creates vibrant prints, stationery, and homeware full of color and character.
• Handmade by Tinni: Pioneers in sustainable textile jewelry, Handmade by Tinni transforms bold colors and organic cotton into wearable works of art with a joyful, maximalist twist.
• Marbec Village: Marbec Village creates metro-themed products inspired by the dynamic urban landscapes of some of the most iconic locations in the UK, each with its own distinct personality and style.
• Lucy Miller: Lucy Miller combines contemporary design and heartfelt messaging in her range of prints, homeware, and stationery, all carefully made in the UK.
• Nantwich Gin: Distilled in Cheshire, Nantwich Gin blends heritage with innovation, crafting premium gins using traditional botanicals and a spirit of local pride.
A Platform for discovery and growth
Soraya Gadelrab, Event Director, Spring Fair, adds, every year, the #SBS Village receives the most fantastic reception from buyers who love to discover the next generation of businesses and innovative products. It is an honor to announce the twelve talented winners, and we look forward to championing them at the show.
For 75 years, Spring Fair has stood as the UK's leading retail trade event, uniting home, gift, and fashion buyers and suppliers of all sizes from across the industry to foster new business opportunities. As an essential meeting place for the retail sector, Spring Fair’s expertise provides an entire community of retailers with unmatched product diversity and inspiration. Buyers will have the chance to see, touch, and experience thousands of the latest products across four key destinations – Home, Gift, Moda, and Everyday – and thirteen definitive sectors.
A significant milestone for the apparel industry, the new India-UK Bilateral Trade Agreement will usher in a new era of garment trade with the UK, opines Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman, Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC). The FTA will enhance market access, spur investment and job creation in the garment sector, besides creating new opportunities for businesses and consumers on both sides, he adds.
The FTA was signed between India and the United Kingdom during Prime Minister Narender Modi’s visit to the country. It aims to strengthen strategic and economic ties between the two nations, particularly in the garment sector.
The agreement will not only provide competitive market access for Indian apparel products in the UK but also increase the trust and reliability factor by streamlining customs procedures and mutual recognition of standards, thereby, reducing the compliance burdens for the Indian apparel exporters, notes Sekhri,
With duty-free access now in place for most garment products, apparel exports to the UK are anticipated to see a renewed thrust and momentum in coming years, The deal will prove to be a testimony of a shared commitment of deepening cooperation between the two countries, Sekhri emphasizes.
A global fashion hub, the United Kingdom is the world's fifth-largest garment importer, with imports valued at $ 19.7 billion in 2024. With its robust apparel sector, India has historically been a trusted partner for the UK, exporting $1.2 billion worth of garments in 2024 and ranking among the top four suppliers. While India primarily exports cotton-based garments like t-shirts, ladies' dresses, and babywear, the previous duty structure limited its competitiveness in winter wear and man-made fiber (MMF) garments. The FTA is expected to address this imbalance, opening new avenues for Indian exporters.
India-UK FTA will help eliminate the existing duty handicap, which had hindered Indian textile and apparel exporters from increasing their market share in the UK, opines Rakesh Mehra, Chairman, Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI).
With the new India-UK FTA, Indian textile and apparel goods will now benefit from zero duty access to the UK market, he adds. The agreement has the potential to significantly transform the fortunes of the entire Indian textile sector and provide the kind of impetus which is necessary to help India realize its ambitious goal of achieving textile and apparel exports of $100 billion by 2030, he opines.
Highlighting the good complementarities offered by trade with the UK, especially as India emerges as a potential supplier of raw materials like MMF (man-made fiber) filament and specialized non-woven fabrics, this FTA will allow Indian exporters to enjoy a more level-playing field vis-à-vis their peers from other countries when it comes to the UK market, Mehra says.
Currently, India is the fourth-largest supplier of textile and apparel products to the United Kingdom, holding approximately a 6.6 per cent share of the UK’s total T&A imports. In 2024, the UK imported T&A products valued at around $27 billion, with apparel and made-up goods accounting for 83 per cent of this total. China was the leading supplier to the UK with about a 25 per cent share, followed by Bangladesh (15 per cent) and Türkiye (8.5 per cent). An analysis of the UK's top 20 imported textile and apparel commodities (at the HS 6-digit level) reveals Bangladesh leading with a 23 per cent share, followed by China (22.6 per cent), Türkiye (10 per cent), and India (4 per cent).
CITI is actively working with the industry and local authorities to ensure Indian companies can fully leverage the opportunities presented by the India-UK FTA. The organization aims to raise the business competitiveness of local textile and apparel units, Mehra emphasizes,
