India’s textile & apparel exports register steady growth in December despite global headwinds

The Textile Ministry has said that the exports of textiles and apparel from India have demonstrated resilience and steady growth in December 2025, despite a subdued global trade environment and the steep 50% tariffs imposed by the US, the country's largest export market for the textiles and apparel industry.

The ministry noted that the sector recorded positive growth for the second consecutive month, with exports rising by 0.40% year-on-year to $3.27 billion in December 2025, following strong growth in November. The sustained uptick reflects the sector's adaptability, diversified market presence, and strength in value-added and labour-intensive segments.

In December 2025, the key segments like handicrafts (7.2%), ready-made garments (2.89%), and MMF yarn, fabrics, and made-ups (3.99%), have registered considerable growth. These trends underline India's competitive advantage in value-added manufacturing, traditional crafts, and employment-intensive production, even amid volatile global demand conditions.

It further said on a calendar year-basis (January-December 2025), textile and apparel exports remained stable at $37.54 billion, with notable cumulative growth in handicrafts (17.5%), ready-made garments (3.5%), and jute products (3.5%). Stability at this scale, despite geopolitical tensions and inflationary pressures in key markets, reflects the sector's structural strength and diversified export basket.

The 2026 budget is around the corner, and the textile sector expects policy measures to support exporters, including temporary relief schemes and more favourable financing terms on bank loans.