Introduction
India's textile and apparel industry, holding a 4% share of the global market, is one of the largest in the world. It contributes 2.3% to the nation's GDP, accounts for 13% of industrial production, and represents 12% of total exports. Over the past five years, the industry has seen significant growth, driven by government initiatives and a rising global demand for Indian textiles. This presents immense opportunities for fashion retailers and brands to tap into India’s thriving textile and garment export market.
In this blog, we will explore the developments in India’s textile and garment industry over the past five years and discuss how it is poised to achieve 10X growth in the next five years.
The Significant Growth in Indian Textile and Garment Exports (2019-2024)
The Indian textile and garment industry experienced a remarkable period of growth between 2019 and 2022, culminating in record-breaking exports.
Record-breaking Exports (2021-2022):
In the fiscal year 2021-2022, India achieved its highest-ever export value for textiles and apparel, reaching an impressive US$45 billion. This milestone marked a substantial increase of 41% and 26% over the previous two years, respectively.
This period of exceptional growth showcased the industry's resilience and potential on the global stage.
Growth Across Various Categories:
During this golden period, various segments within the industry saw impressive growth. Cotton textile exports surged by 54%, man-made textiles by 51%, ready-made garments (RMGs) by 30%, and handicrafts by 22%.
This widespread growth across different categories demonstrated the versatility and adaptability of Indian textile manufacturers.
Emergence as a Strong Exporter of Technical Textiles:
India also emerged as a significant player in the export of technical textiles, with a growth rate of 28.4% year-on-year in 2021-2022, reaching exports of $2.85 billion.
Technical textiles, which include products used in industries such as automotive, healthcare, and infrastructure, have become a crucial part of the industry’s diversified portfolio.
Factors Contributing to This Growth in the Indian Textile and Garment Industry
There are several factors played a pivotal role in driving this growth:
Government Initiatives:
The Indian government introduced several initiatives to bolster the textile and garment industry. Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes provided financial incentives for domestic production and exports of specific textile and garment segments.
Additionally, skilling programs aimed at creating a skilled workforce addressed the industry's need for skilled labor, leading to improved efficiency and productivity. Significant investments in infrastructure development, such as enhancing logistics and transportation networks, streamlined the movement of goods and reduced export lead times.
Industry Modernization and Diversification:
Many textile companies invested in modern machinery and technology, leading to improved product quality, higher production capacity, and a broader range of offerings. This modernization made Indian products more attractive to international buyers.
The industry also diversified its product portfolio beyond basic textiles, focusing on high-demand sectors like technical textiles, which opened new export avenues.
Shifting Trade Dynamics:
Shifting trade dynamics, particularly the rising labor costs and trade tensions faced by China, created opportunities for other exporters, including India, to capture a larger market share.
This shift allowed India to strengthen its position as a competitive exporter in the global market.
Example: Trade tensions between the US and China, along with rising labor costs in China, created opportunities for other exporters like India. This presented a window for India to capture a larger market share in the global textile and garment trade.
US: As the US imposed tariffs on Chinese goods, Indian apparel exports to the US increased significantly in recent years.
Europe: Similar trends were observed in European markets, where Indian exporters benefited from the shift in sourcing strategies by European clothing brands.
Increased Global Demand for Textiles:
The global demand for textiles and garments grew steadily during this period, driven by factors such as a rising middle class in developing countries and increasing disposable incomes.
This surge in demand provided Indian exporters with new opportunities to expand their market presence.
Example: Increased disposable incomes in the US, Europe, and Southeast Asia have led to a surge in demand for textiles and garments, benefiting Indian exporters who can offer competitive pricing on a wide variety of products.
Favorable Cotton Prices:
Relatively lower cotton prices compared to previous years benefited Indian manufacturers, enabling them to offer competitive pricing in the international market.
This price advantage helped boost exports and maintain India's competitiveness.
These factors created a perfect storm for the Indian textile and garment export industry. Government initiatives provided the necessary push, while favorable global conditions presented a receptive market. The modernization within the industry and a diversified product portfolio further strengthened India’s position as a competitive exporter. This synergy led to significant growth in exports, marking a high point in the industry's recent history.
Recent Decline (2023-2024)
From April 2023 to February 2024, India's textile exports dropped by 4.2% compared to the previous year. This decline was influenced by:
Factors Contributing to this Decline
Competition:
Countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam have emerged as strong competitors in the textile and garment industry. These countries offer similar pricing and are rapidly improving their production capabilities and infrastructure.
Bangladesh has a lower labor cost advantage compared to India, making them highly competitive in basic garment segments. Their exports have grown significantly in recent years, challenging India's market share.
Vietnam has invested heavily in infrastructure development and skill training, making it a more attractive proposition for foreign investment in the textile industry.
Economic Slowdown:
Major economies like the US and EU saw reduced consumer spending due to factors such as inflation and geopolitical tensions.
Supply Chain Disruptions:
The conflict in Yemen disrupted shipping routes, increasing costs and delays for Indian exports.
Limited Diversification:
Reliance on traditional textiles made India susceptible to variations in global demand.
Inventory Challenges:
Retailers in key markets reduced inventories, impacting orders for Indian exporters.
Rising Costs:
Fluctuating cotton prices and higher raw material costs squeezed profit margins.
To recover and sustain growth, the Indian textile industry must adapt by diversifying products, improving efficiency, and managing costs effectively. Strengthening supply chains and responding swiftly to global economic shifts will be essential for future resilience and competitiveness.
The Future Outlook: Indian Textile and Garment Industry in the Next Five Years
Despite recent challenges, the Indian textile and garment industry is poised for substantial growth over the next five years. Here is a detailed overview of the trends that will shape its future:
Market Expansion and Domestic Demand
Projected Growth: The industry aims to reach US$350 billion by 2030, driven by robust domestic demand.
Domestic Market: India's growing population and rising disposable incomes will fuel increased demand for textiles and garments.
Urbanization Impact: Migration to urban areas will escalate demand for ready-made garments and fashion apparel.
E-commerce Boost: The surge in e-commerce platforms will broaden access to Indian textile products, potentially boosting both domestic sales and exports.
Emphasis on Technical Textiles
Government Support: Initiatives like PLIs will stimulate investment in technical textiles, crucial for sectors like automobiles, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Diversification: Expansion into technical textiles diversifies production, enhancing export potential and leveraging India's competitive cost advantage.
Export Opportunities: Technical textiles, in high demand globally, present significant export opportunities for Indian manufacturers.
Automation and Skill Development
Technology Adoption: Integrating robotics and AI will streamline operations, from fabric cutting to quality control, enhancing efficiency and competitiveness.
Workforce Adaptation: Automation will create new roles requiring specialized skills, necessitating upskilling initiatives to meet industry demands.
Sustainability Drive: Addressing environmental concerns through eco-friendly materials like organic cotton and recycled fibers will align with global consumer preferences.
Supply Chain Transparency: Demonstrating ethical sourcing and sustainable practices will enhance market competitiveness.
In summary, the next five years hold immense promise for the Indian textile and garment industry. Through strategic planning and adaptation to global dynamics, India is set to achieve sustainable growth and reaffirm its leadership in the global textile market.
Government Initiatives to Boost Indian Textile & Garment Exports
The Indian government is dedicated to advancing the textile and garment industry through strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing competitiveness and fostering growth. Here's an overview of key initiatives and their objectives:
Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: This ongoing program offers financial incentives to companies involved in manufacturing MMF apparel, MMF fabrics, and technical textiles. Its goal is to attract investments, increase production capacity, and improve export competitiveness.
Scheme for Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL): Designed to enhance cost competitiveness, RoSCTL provides rebates on state and central taxes for exports of garments and made-up articles. Its recent extension until March 2024 aims to further support Indian exports.
Pradhan Mantri Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel Parks (PM MITRA): Focused on establishing world-class textile parks with advanced infrastructure, PM MITRA aims to attract investments, create jobs, and boost exports by providing conducive manufacturing environments.
Textiles Sector Skill Council (TSC): This body develops skilled workforce through industry-specific training programs, addressing the sector's demand for qualified personnel.
Office of the Textile Commissioner (OTC) and The Garment Exporters' Association (GEA): These organizations play pivotal roles in policy formulation, export promotion, and addressing industry challenges, ensuring a supportive regulatory environment.
Proposed Global Trade Promotion Organization (GTPO): Under development, the GTPO aims to support MSME exporters by facilitating registrations, licensing, and certifications, as well as connecting them with international business opportunities. Modeled after successful global trade organizations, its potential benefits are significant for streamlining export processes.
Role of The Directorate General of Trade Policy (DGTP): Operating under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, DGTP formulates and implements trade policies critical to the textile sector. It negotiates favorable trade agreements, monitors global trade trends, and facilitates access to trade finance, thereby supporting Indian textile exports in international markets.
These initiatives underscore India's proactive approach to fostering a vibrant and competitive textile and garment industry, poised for sustained growth and global leadership.
Manufacturing Hubs: Driving Growth in the Indian Textile and Garment Industry
India is home to several vibrant textile and garment manufacturing hubs, each renowned for distinct specialties and contributions to the industry’s growth:
1. Tirupur (Tamil Nadu)
Specialty: Known as the "Knitwear Capital of India," Tirupur leads in knitwear and casual wear exports.
Products: It excels in T-shirts, sweatshirts, sportswear, innerwear, and activewear.
Strengths:
Robust infrastructure including spinning mills, knitting units, dyeing facilities, and garment factories.
A skilled workforce adept in all phases of knitwear production.
Efficient supply chain and well-established logistics network.
Cost-competitive production due to economies of scale.
2. Ludhiana (Punjab):
Specialty: Prominent for woolen and cotton knitwear, especially T-shirts and sweaters.
Products: Offers a wide range including sweaters, cardigans, hosiery, and activewear.
Strengths:
Strong presence of SMEs specializing in knitwear.
A well-developed infrastructure for processing wool and cotton yarn.
Skilled workforce adept in knitting techniques for woolen and cotton garments.
3. Mumbai (Maharashtra):
Specialty: Major center for high-fashion garments and MMF textiles.
Products: Diverse range from designer wear to sarees and dress materials.
Strengths:
Presence of leading fashion houses and textile companies.
Skilled workforce skilled in design, pattern development, and garment construction.
Access to a large market base and strong distribution network.
4. Delhi (NCR):
Specialty: Diverse hub catering to various garment segments.
Products: Offers formal wear, casual wear, ethnic wear, and children’s clothing.
Strengths:
Concentration of manufacturers catering to different market segments.
Abundance of skilled labor and extensive supplier network.
Availability of design studios and export houses facilitating international trade.
5. Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu):
Specialty: Specialty: Famous for exquisite silk sarees and traditional textiles.
Products: Specializes in handloom silk sarees with intricate designs and zari work.
Strengths:
A rich heritage and skilled artisans preserving traditional weaving techniques.
Focus on quality craftsmanship and intricate designs.
There is a rising demand for authentic Indian textiles both within the country and globally.
6. Ahmedabad (Gujarat):
Specialty: Significant center for cotton and denim textiles.
Products: Produces cotton fabrics, shirting, and denim clothing.
Strengths:
A strong presence of spinning mills and textile processing units.
Established a market for cotton and denim fabrics catering to domestic and export markets.
Skilled workforce experienced in cotton and denim production.
7. Gurgaon (NCR):
Specialty: Hub for various garment segments including formals, casual wear, and children's clothing.
Strengths:
Presence of export houses and design studios facilitating international trade.
Access to a large talent pool and suppliers catering to diverse garment needs.
8. Noida & Faridabad (NCR):
Specialty: Focus on ladies' and kids' fashion wear.
Strengths:
Concentration of garment factories specializing in these segments.
Supporting industries like embroidery and embellishment units enhancing manufacturing capabilities.
9. Kolkata (West Bengal):
Specialty: Renowned for traditional textiles like sarees and lungis, alongside modern garment manufacturing.
Strengths:
A rich heritage in handloom weaving techniques.
Skilled workforce adept in traditional textiles and modern garment production.
Presence of factories serving both domestic and export markets.
10. Chennai (Tamil Nadu):
Specialty: Diverse hub encompassing knitwear, hosiery, and formal wear.
Strengths:
Strong infrastructure with spinning mills, garment factories, and processing units.
Access to a large workforce and well-established port facilities supporting exports.
11. Bangalore (Karnataka):
Specialty: Emerging center for fashion apparel and designer wear.
Strengths:
The growing presence of design schools and fashion institutes fostering innovation.
Skilled workforce is adaptable to new trends.
Presence of export houses and buying agents facilitating global trade.
12. Surat (Gujarat):
Specialty: A leading hub for man-made fibers (MMF) and synthetic textiles, expanding into garment manufacturing.
Strengths:
A strong base of textile processing units ensures high production standards.
An abundant supply of raw materials supports diverse manufacturing needs.
13. Jaipur (Rajasthan):
Specialty: Known for traditional Rajasthani textiles, including hand block printing, and a growing modern garment industry.
Strengths:
The rich heritage of craftsmanship in textile arts.
Skilled artisans proficient in handloom techniques and embroidery.
The increasing presence of export-oriented garment factories.
These manufacturing hubs exemplify India’s diverse textile industry landscape. Each location leverages unique strengths to contribute significantly to the sector’s growth, reinforcing India’s position as a global leader in textile and garment manufacturing.
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Conclusion: In conclusion, our exploration into the potential growth of the Indian textile and garment export industry over the next five years reveals promising opportunities. With strategic government initiatives, diverse manufacturing hubs, and a strong focus on innovation and sustainability, India is poised to expand its global footprint in clothing manufacturing.
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