India’s vital gems and jewellery trade faces significant disruption. The ongoing Middle East conflict has halted exports and imports of rough diamonds. Dubai, a key hub, has suspended flights, impacting shipments. This standstill affects India’s $30 billion annual exports, with the Middle East accounting for a quarter. The situation could hurt demand if it continues.

After the election, as the new Government took charge, Bangladesh’s RMG sector sought stability, energy security and reforms to reach $100 billion exports by 2030.
As per Moody’s, the election, which gave BNP a majority, is seen as a key step towards political normalisation after the 2024 unrest.
At least 15 MPs elected to the 13th National Parliament have direct ties to the RMG and textile sector.

Australia’s textile trade showed a mixed pattern in July-January with apparel imports declining while textile and fibre imports posted moderate growth.
The divergence suggests softer retail demand for clothing but steady industrial and manufacturing use of textile inputs, while fibre export growth reflects recovering global demand despite earlier price and logistics pressures.

The Supervisory Board of adidas AG has extended CEO Bjørn Gulden’s contract to December 31, 2030, and Michelle Robertson’s to December 31, 2031, ensuring leadership continuity.
Nassef Sawiris is set to succeed Thomas Rabe as chairman following the May 07, 2026 AGM, with Ian Gallienne proposed for re-election and Mathias Döpfner nominated as a new board member.

India’s apparel exports to Canada could increase sharply if the CEPA removes MFN tariff disadvantages against competitors like Bangladesh and Vietnam.
Knit basics may see the fastest gains due to tariff-sensitive pricing and easy supplier switching.
However, success will increasingly depend on compliance, traceability and workable rules of origin.

India’s move to form an inter-ministerial group signals a proactive approach to managing export risks amid rising geopolitical uncertainty.
By closely monitoring supply chains, logistics routes and critical imports, the government aims to ensure faster policy responses and protect export competitiveness, particularly for sectors like textiles that are highly exposed to trade disruptions.

American Eagle forecasts sales growth above estimates on demand from wealthy shoppers

Indian apparel exporters face potential shipping delays and increased costs. Tensions in West Asia could disrupt key sea routes, impacting shipments to the UAE. This situation threatens to squeeze already thin profit margins. Exporters are concerned about meeting existing contracts. Meetings with Middle East buyers have been cancelled. The situation adds to existing challenges for the industry.

Ross Stores forecasts annual sales above estimates on resilient demand for discounted apparel

Khadi fabric represents economic strength. Every purchase supports village industries and a self-reliant India. The Khadi and Village Industries Commission achieved a historic Rs 1.7 lakh crore turnover in 2024-25. This generated employment for 1.94 crore people. The Khadi Mahotsav in Thane celebrates 70 years of KVIC’s service. The exhibition features stalls from 15 states.