CBERA’s impact on the US economy remains small but benefits Caribbean nations, says USITC’s 27th biennial report for 2023–24.
Imports fell 34.5 per cent to $1.8 billion in 2024, with utilisation dropping to 27.7 per cent.
Despite this, per capita exports rose, led by Haiti’s apparel sector.
HOPE/HELP expiry in September 2025 could severely impact Haiti’s economy.

Central and South American apparel imports rose 12.86 per cent to $4.89 billion in H1 2025, signalling demand recovery after a weak 2024.
China led with 54.04 per cent share, followed by Bangladesh, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Honduras, together making up over 72 per cent.
The region’s imports remain below the 2022 peak, leaving room for continued growth and nearshoring opportunities.

VF Corporation has agreed to sell its Dickies brand to Bluestar Alliance for $600 million in cash.
The iconic workwear label, with distribution in 55 countries, will benefit from Bluestar’s consumer insights and operational expertise.
VF CEO Bracken Darrell said the deal will reduce net debt and support portfolio growth while thanking the Dickies team for their efforts.

Bangladesh apparel industry is reportedly facing a liquidity crunch due to banking failures at a time when shifting orders are expected to benefit the country.
The sector’s heavy reliance on back-to-back LCs has turned risky, as local banks struggled to honour or issue new LCs.
Exporters warned delayed payments and financing risks might hit Bangladesh’s image while also eroding its competitive gains.

Indian fashion retailers are prioritizing sustainable profitability amid changing consumer habits and rising costs. Industry leaders at ETRetail The FashionXP emphasized key pillars like top-line growth through quality collections and convenience, bottom-line management focusing on cost control, strategic expansion, and human resource development.

Sourav Ganguly has partnered with Myntra to launch ‘Souragya,’ a premium ethnic wear brand, just in time for Durga Puja and Diwali. The brand aims to blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary designs, targeting the fashion-forward generation. With nearly 100 styles, the collection will be exclusively available on Myntra, tapping into the rapidly expanding Indian ethnic wear market.

Brand Concepts Ltd. has partnered with luxury streetwear label Off-White to launch the brand in India, marking the company’s entry into the luxury fashion segment. This strategic move aims to capitalize on the increasing demand for international luxury brands among Indian consumers.

Giorgio Armani, the iconic Italian designer who recently passed away at 91, left instructions for his heirs to sell a 15% minority stake in his fashion empire, prioritizing LVMH, Essilor-Luxottica, or L’Oreal. Control of the business is divided among longtime collaborator Leo Dell’Orco, niece Silvana Armani, and nephew Andrea Camerana, while the Armani Foundation retains a significant portion.

The Bear House, a men’s apparel and accessories brand, plans a Rs 55 crore investment to expand internationally and strengthen its Indian offline presence, aiming to become a Rs 500 crore brand by FY27.

India’s luggage market is set for big growth. A new report forecasts a 12% annual rise, reaching Rs 267 billion by 2028. Weddings and increased travel are boosting demand. Branded luggage is becoming more popular. VIP, Samsonite, and Safari are leading brands. The shift to online shopping is also helping the industry.