Apparels

The Philippines will provide ‘flexible financing’ to domestic garment manufacturers for automation, machinery and production equipment to make them more competitive in the global market.
Incentives under the DTI’s Board of Investments will support mechanised and digital garment production, while the Philippine Economic Zone Authority will offer a comprehensive package for export-oriented garment firms.

The US House has passed the AGOA Extension Act, extending till December 31, 2028, duty-free access to the US for most exports from sub-Saharan Africa.
The bill also extends till December 31, 2031, customs user fees and merchandise processing fees.
The Haiti Economic Lift Programme Extension Act was also passed, extending till December 31, 2028, the special duty-free rules for apparel imported from Haiti.

LA’s garment industry enters 2026 amid disruption and cautious revival.
Immigration raids, rising costs and sustainability rules continue to strain factories, while tariffs and supply-chain risks are driving limited reshoring.
Any rebound is likely to be selective, centred on specialised and higher-value production rather than a return to mass manufacturing.

India’s apparel market is set for major growth. It is expected to reach Rs 16 lakh crore by 2029-30. Rising incomes and online shopping are key drivers. Value fashion brands are expanding rapidly. E-commerce will also see significant growth. Recent GST changes will boost affordability for many shoppers.

India’s gem and jewellery exports to the US saw a significant 44.42% drop to US$ 3.86 billion in April-December 2025, driven by tariff pressures and weak demand. Despite this, overall exports remained stable at US$ 20.75 billion, bolstered by strong growth in markets like the UAE and Australia, highlighting successful diversification strategies.

The Philippines is considering reducing value-added tax (VAT) and introducing more fiscal support to enhance the cost competitiveness of domestic garments.
The 12-per cent VAT rate in the country is the highest in the region.
Domestic garment manufacturers and exporters have been complaining about rising costs and tougher competition in the global market, Trade secretary Cristina Roque said.

Trade body BGMEA and ActionAid Bangladesh recently signed an MoU to work as strategic partners in advancing the sustainable transformation of the garment sector.
Beginning this month, the MoU will remain effective for five years.
The partnership aims at ensuring human rights and environmental due diligence, strengthening compliance capacity and improving the overall quality of life of garment workers.

Designer Tarun Tahiliani is setting the stage for an ambitious growth trajectory, aiming to expand his brand to ₹600-700 crore. He’s honing in on ready-to-wear and premium lines, including Tasva and OTT, while also prioritising the vital aspect of physical retail growth.

Sachin Tendulkar’s brand, Ten X You, has launched on Myntra. The brand aims to encourage an active lifestyle across India. It offers a wide range of sports and athleisure wear. The collection includes footwear and apparel designed for comfort and versatility. This launch caters to everyday consumers seeking enjoyable and accessible sports integration into their lives.

Ghana is collaborating with the private sector to set up three new garment units, generating 27,000 direct jobs under the 24 Hour Economy Policy.
The facilities will be located in the Central, Bono East and Eastern regions, with each factory expected to operate 24 hours to maximise productivity.
Each unit can employ 3,000 workers per shift.
Contracts have been secured to ensure demand-driven production.