Apparels

Gemological Institute of America (GIA) will launch its ‘finished jewellery report’ service in India starting in August, providing detailed information on jewellery components to boost consumer trust. GIA is also planning to expand this service to other growth markets. Furthermore, GIA is collaborating with De Beers’ Tracr platform and considering establishing a new laboratory in Surat.

Apparel imports into the Middle East rose 6.58 per cent year-on-year to $2.572 billion in January–April 2025, despite ongoing regional conflict.
China remained the top supplier, followed by Bangladesh and Turkiye.
The region’s imports also saw a 15.40 per cent rise in 2024.
Countries like Vietnam, India, Egypt, and Italy were among key exporters, reflecting resilient demand across Middle East.

Badalia Diamond Jewellers has a new name. It is now Golubhai Badalia Diamond. This change shows new leadership. The company wants to grow globally. Golubhai Badalia leads the company with Ishmita Badalia. They focus on diamond jewellery. The rebranding aligns the company’s heritage with its future goals. The company is excited about this new chapter.

Uniqlo will open its first store in Bengaluru on August 29, 2025 at Orion Mall, Brigade Gateway, marking its entry into southern India.
Spanning 9,012 square feet, the store will offer Uniqlo LifeWear for men, women, kids, and babies.
This is the brand’s 16th store in India, expanding its presence into one of the country’s most dynamic urban centres.

Timex Group India has received a copy of revised notice of OFS from its promoter Timex Group Luxury Watches BV, Netherlands, dated June 24, 2025, according to a regulatory filing.

China’s share in Japan’s apparel imports dropped to 46.88 per cent in January–April 2025, down from over 55 per cent in 2022.
Despite remaining the top supplier, China faces growing competition, particularly from Vietnam, which held an 18.60 per cent share.
While Japan’s total apparel imports rose 8.93 per cent, China’s slower growth of 5.39 per cent led to a declining market share.

Bangladesh’s RMG exports to the EU rose to $8.07 billion during January-April 20-25 from $6.51 billion during the same period last year.
China’s apparel exports to the EU during the period reached $8.39 billion—up from $6.90 billion in the same period in 2024.
Turkiye saw a 5.41 per cent YoY decrease in apparel exports to the EU during the period, while Vietnam recorded a 15.62 per cent YoY growth.

France’s new law targets ultra-fast fashion giants Shein and Temu with eco-taxes, ad bans, and package levies, aiming to curb environmental damage and unethical labour practices.
By distinguishing ‘ultra’ from conventional fast fashion, France shields domestic firms while testing bold regulation.
The outcome could reshape global fashion governance.

India’s gold import dynamics saw a shift in FY2025 following a sharp reduction in import duty from 15% to 6%, effective July 24, 2024. According to a report released by ICRA, official gold bullion imports rose by 8% during the year despite flat overall demand at 782 tonnes, compared to 774 tonnes in FY2024. This suggests a decline in unofficial gold inflows.

Adidas has announced Vijay Chauhan as the new general manager for its India operations, effective August 1, 2025. Chauhan, returning to Adidas after a stint at American Eagle Outfitters, succeeds Neelendra Singh, who is stepping down after two decades. Singh is credited with significantly boosting Adidas’s brand presence in India, particularly in cricket.