Apparels

US sportswear imports remained under pressure in January–October, with values largely flat as lower unit prices offset stable volumes.
Import volumes held at 3.905 million dozen, but average prices declined, reflecting cautious buying, tighter retail margins and intensified supplier competition.
Vietnam led supplies despite a softer share, while Bangladesh gained strongly amid sourcing diversification.

Vietnam’s textile and garment exports target ~$50 billion this year, driven by structural reforms, efficiency gains, and deeper integration into global value chains.
Smarter use of FTAs is lifting competitiveness even as heavy investment in local supply chains, technology, automation, and compliance helps to boost exports and position Vietnam as a higher-value, strategic apparel partner.

Indian apparel exporters face factory closures and job losses. Buyers are deferring or cancelling orders due to uncertainty over high US tariffs. The Apparel Export Promotion Council warns of permanent harm if a tariff deal is delayed. Exporters have absorbed significant price reductions, wiping out profits.

Silver and gold prices climbed on Friday, driven by strong safe-haven demand amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and expectations of easier US monetary policy. In the domestic retail market, silver rose 6.42% to ₹3,18,960 per kg, while gold gained 3% to ₹1,55,428 per 10 gm.

The UK’s rapid signing of trade agreements post-Brexit is changing how apparel is sourced, priced, and routed.
Preferential access is creating new opportunities, but only for firms that can manage rules of origin.
As new deals intersect with legacy agreements, compliance is becoming a strategic capability.
Sourcing decisions are increasingly shaped by risk, flexibility, and long-term trade alignment.

Nike announced leadership changes across three regions.
Carl Grebert is retiring as EMEA VP/GM, with César Garcia succeeding him from February 2026.
In Greater China, Angela Dong will depart in March 2026, replaced by Cathy Sparks.
Following Sparks’ move, Cristin Campbell will serve as Interim VP/GM of APLA while Nike searches for a permanent successor.

Jordan Brand and Levi’s unveil a new collaborative collection blending denim craftsmanship with basketball and streetwear culture.
The range spans Air Jordan 3 footwear in four distinct colourways and a nine-piece apparel lineup, merging archival details, premium materials and cultural storytelling inspired by global communities, sport heritage and street style.

India’s upcoming Union Budget has drawn attention as gold prices continue to surge, making policy decisions on import duties sensitive for consumers. Gold posted its strongest global performance in decades in 2025, driven by safe-haven demand, US rate cuts and a weaker dollar.

Dhaka will soon sign the Bangladesh-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement to strengthen bilateral economic ties and expand trade and investment.
Upon entry into force, 7,379 products from Bangladesh will enjoy immediate duty-free access to the Japanese market from the first day of signing.
Bangladesh’s key export items, particularly readymade garments, will gain duty-free access to Japan from day one.

Ghana’s Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare recently announced government plans to back the private sector in setting up three large garment factories to accelerate industrial growth and generate up to 27,000 jobs.
She said the government’s role will be to provide the enabling environment and targeted support needed for private investors to drive industrial expansion.