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India's Textile Triumph: How Exports Defied Global Headwinds in 111 Markets

India's textile sector has shown remarkable resilience despite facing global economic challenges. Exports to 111 countries jumped by 10% during the first half of FY 2025-26, reaching $8.49 billion. Key markets like Japan and Hong Kong recorded massive growth rates of 19% and 69% respectively. The success reflects both sector adaptability and government initiatives supporting export diversification and artisan welfare through GST reforms.

Key Points: India Textile Exports Grow 10% Across 111 Countries FY2026

  • Textile exports grew 10% to $8.49 billion across 111 global markets
  • Japan led growth with 19% increase while Hong Kong surged 69%
  • Ready-made garments and jute sectors drove the impressive export expansion
  • GST cuts on handicrafts boosted artisan earnings and market competitiveness
2 min read

India's textile exports record growth in 111 countries

India's textile exports surge 10% to $8.49 billion across 111 markets despite global challenges, with Japan up 19% and Hong Kong soaring 69%.

"This performance highlights the sector's adaptability and competitiveness in the face of global uncertainties. - Ministry Statement"

New Delhi, Nov 12

India's global exports of textiles, apparel and made-ups grew by 0.1 per cent during April–September 2025, compared to the corresponding period in 2024, the government data showed on Wednesday.

The textile and apparel sector, including handicrafts exports, demonstrated remarkable resilience in the first half of FY 2025-26 despite global headwinds and tariff-related challenges in major markets.

Some of the large export markets for India which clocked impressive growth rates were the UAE (14.5 per cent), the UK (1.5 per cent), Japan (19.0 per cent), Germany (2.9 per cent), Spain (9.0 per cent) and France (9.2 per cent).

On the other hand, some of the other markets that recorded higher growth rates were Egypt (27 per cent), Saudi Arabia (12.5 per cent), Hong Kong (69 per cent), etc.

These 111 markets contributed $8,489.08 million during April-September 2025, compared to $7,718.55 million in the previous year -- reflecting a 10 per cent growth and an absolute increase of $770.3 million.

The key sectors driving this growth included ready-made garments (RMG) of all textiles (3.42 per cent growth) and Jute (5.56 per cent growth).

The ministry said that this performance highlights the sector's adaptability and competitiveness in the face of global uncertainties. India's continued expansion into non-traditional markets reinforces the Government's policy focus on export diversification, value addition, and global market integration under the "Make in India" and "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" initiatives.

Meanwhile, the GST 2.0 rate cuts on several handicraft items from 12 per cent to 5 per cent have come as a major boon for the country's artisans, as demand for their products has gone up, leading to higher earnings and also enabling them to compete with factory-made goods.

The tax cuts have benefited artisans producing items like wood-carved products, terracotta jute handbags, textile items, and leather goods. By lightening the tax load, the reforms will help build stronger markets for traditional handlooms and crafts.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While the growth numbers look good, I'm concerned about the small 0.1% overall growth. We need more aggressive policies to compete with countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam in the textile sector. The government should focus on infrastructure and skill development too.
A
Ananya R
The GST reduction on handicrafts from 12% to 5% is a game-changer for our artisans! My aunt in Jaipur who makes traditional textiles says her business has improved significantly. More power to our local craftspeople! 🙏
S
Sarah B
As someone who works in the export sector, I can confirm that diversification into non-traditional markets is paying off. The growth in Middle Eastern and European markets shows our products have universal appeal. Keep it up!
V
Vikram M
Jute sector growing at 5.56% is excellent news for our farmers in West Bengal! This sustainable material has huge potential globally. Hope the government continues supporting eco-friendly Indian products.
M
Michael C
The $770 million absolute increase is substantial! This growth will create more jobs in textile hubs like Tiruppur, Surat, and Ludhiana. Good for our economy and employment generation.

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