Europe’s apparel sourcing is shifting from cost to capability.
Q1 2026 data show buyers favoured suppliers offering speed, reliability and compliance, while several traditional low-cost exporters lost share.
As stricter EU regulations take effect, success will increasingly depend on traceability, operational resilience, product flexibility and consistent execution rather than price alone.

Europe’s apparel trade remains deeply reliant on Asian manufacturing despite strong EU export figures.
TexPro data show rising sourcing from Asia-Pacific, while Q1 2026 revealed falling import volumes but higher unit values.
As EU compliance, traceability and sustainability rules tighten, suppliers with transparent, resilient and compliant supply chains will gain a lasting competitive advantage.

New Zealand’s apparel imports fell 3.9 per cent year on year to NZ$873.72 million in January-May 2026, reflecting weaker demand for both knitted and non-knitted garments.
However, imports rose 1.3 per cent in May.
Textile fabric imports increased 20.2 per cent during the five-month period, while apparel exports jumped 24.4 per cent in May, driven by knitted garments.

Sri Lanka’s apparel and textile exports rose 7.96 per cent year on year to $394.14 million in May 2026, marking the sector’s strongest monthly performance this year.
Growth was driven by a 15.36 per cent rise in exports to the US and higher shipments to non-traditional markets.
However, January-May exports were still down 4.68 per cent, with the industry awaiting a key US tariff decision.

Swatch claiming $170 million in damages against Samsung over trademark infringement, FT reports

He will be responsible for driving the division’s expansion, strengthening brand partnerships, enhancing consumer experience and expanding its market presence through integrated retail and omnichannel strategies.

India is working to expand its textile manufacturing base beyond traditional hubs such as Tirupur, Surat, Panipat and Ludhiana, by engaging with states that currently have limited industry presence. The textiles ministry is in talks with Chhattisgarh, Kerala and Jharkhand to support new manufacturing clusters, an official said.

India is aiming to become a global textile powerhouse, targeting $100 billion in exports by 2030. The strategy emphasizes sustainability, including recycling and environmental compliance, alongside leveraging free trade agreements. Key initiatives involve digital product passports, supporting MSMEs, and enhancing product-market strategies. The focus is on translating policy into action across all levels to boost the sector and promote ‘Brand India’ internationally.

Natural diamond prices are experiencing a significant rebound, climbing 5-8% year-on-year, driven by reduced supply from major miners and renewed investor interest. Solitaires are increasingly seen as an asset class, with younger generations like Gen Z and millennials leading the demand, viewing them for both aspirational value and investment potential due to their inherent rarity. India plays a crucial role, now accounting for 12% of global diamond demand value.

Raymond is gearing up for a significant global expansion, with Executive Chairman Gautam Hari Singhania highlighting the UK-India Free Trade Agreement as a key enabler. This pact is expected to merge British tailoring expertise with India’s manufacturing prowess, targeting a discerning international fashion market.