Gold and silver are poised for further gains next week as investors flock to safe havens amid renewed trade tensions and Middle East geopolitical strains. Analysts are closely monitoring key US economic data and China’s lending rate decision for market direction. Escalating global tariffs and regional conflicts are bolstering demand for precious metals as a hedge against uncertainty.

Argentina’s apparel imports surged 97.35 per cent YoY to $681.19 million in 2025, driven by import policy easing, improved access to foreign exchange and inventory restocking.
Volumes rose to 38.07 million kg, while average prices fell to $17.89 per kg.
Asia-Pacific dominated sourcing with an 84.16 per cent share, led by China, as retailers rebuilt stocks amid limited domestic manufacturing capacity.

Globally, the luxury boom is cooling, with prices for prestige assets like watches and fine wines dropping 10-20%. However, India is experiencing a surge in demand for Swiss watches, with exports rising significantly. This presents a unique opportunity for Indian buyers to enter a market that is correcting worldwide but expanding locally.

Vietnam’s apparel exports to Europe rose to $9.402 billion in 2025, extending post-pandemic growth on stronger EU demand and supply-chain stability.
Woven garments led shipments, while man-made fibres dominated by material share.
The upward trend since 2020 reflects gains from the EU–Vietnam FTA, diversified product capability and deeper integration into European sourcing networks.

Bangladesh and Japan have signed EPA.
Japan will allow duty-free entry for Bangladeshi garments, while Dhaka will gradually cut tariffs on selected Japanese goods after ratification.
Pact will help Bangladesh avoid 8–15 per cent MFN tariffs.
Some analysts warn of competitive pressure from reciprocal duty cuts on Japanese apparel inputs.
Leather products do not receive immediate zero-tariff access.

In India, the fashion landscape is undergoing a transformation. Athleisure is not just for workouts anymore; it’s becoming a staple in daily wardrobes. Denim styles are evolving to incorporate fresh, innovative designs. Fast fashion allows consumers to quickly access the latest international trends at wallet-friendly prices. Meanwhile, luxury retail is on the rise, offering exclusive experiences.

New Balance reported record 2025 global sales of $9.2 billion, up 19 per cent year on year, marking its fifth straight year of double-digit growth.
North America and Europe led gains, while apparel and owned retail each crossed $1 billion.
The brand expanded manufacturing, digital and distribution capabilities, deepened athlete partnerships, and donated $17.3 million to 95 nonprofits worldwide.

Delta Galil has reported record 2025 sales of $2.12 billion, up 4 per cent, driven by DTC growth and organic expansion.
Gross profit rose 5 per cent, while EBIT and net income declined due to tariffs and higher expenses.
Q4 sales reached $611.1 million with strong digital momentum.
The company declared a $10 million dividend and expects high-single-digit sales and double-digit profit growth in 2026.

Japan’s apparel and accessory imports fell 6.9 per cent year on year to 345,451 million yen in January 2026, despite a 4.5 per cent rise in full-year 2025.
Textile yarn and fabric imports also eased, while exports of yarn, fabric and textile machinery recorded double-digit growth in January.
Fiscal data show mixed trends, with clothing imports rebounding after earlier declines.

India’s FY27 budget, along with the completion of the India-EU FTA and the recent cut in US import tariffs, collectively create a positive policy environment for India’s leather industry, according to CareEdge Ratings.
India emerges as the principal gainer, with tariffs falling sharply from around 17 per cent to nil in FY26, thereby enhancing its cost competitiveness and export potential, it observed.