Apparels

Japan’s clothing and accessories imports declined by 2.9 per cent to ¥251.6 billion (~$1.74 billion) in May 2025, while textile yarn and fabric imports fell 8.9 per cent.
Exports of textile yarn and fabric rose 2.5 per cent, and textile machinery exports increased 13.3 per cent.
For fiscal 2025, clothing imports grew 5.2 per cent, while textile machinery exports declined 12.6 per cent year-on-year.

Kolkata airport facilitated hand-carriage exports of gems and jewellery to Italy and Dubai, showcasing a streamlined process. Senco Gold and M Sashi Badalia & Sons utilized this efficient method, reducing clearance times to two days.

Indian textile exporters have a golden opportunity. Tariff and political issues affect China and Bangladesh. India can gain through capacity addition. Government supports expansion via production incentives. New trade agreements will boost exports. The industry needs proactive capacity creation. Policy support is crucial for achieving scale in textiles. Industrial policy must consider slow-moving segments.

Vietnam’s apparel exports to ASEAN declined by 5.50 per cent to $170.27 million in Q1 2025 and fell 15.84 per cent from the previous quarter.
However, annual exports to the bloc more than doubled from 2020 to 2024.
Fabric exports rose 17.16 per cent year-on-year in Q1 2025 to $157.49 million.
Annual fabric exports reached $606.09 million in 2024, up 12.43 per cent from 2023.

The Bangladesh Footwear Manufacturers’ Association has called for reinstating the 15-per cent value-added tax (VAT) exemption on low-cost rubber and plastic footwear priced at or below taka 150.
VAT exemption on this category of footwear had been in place since 2016, but was withdrawn.
The decision has led to a rise in production costs, reduced demand, factory closures and significant job losses.

PNGS Reva Diamond Jewellery, based in Pune, has submitted preliminary documents to Sebi to raise Rs 450 crore through an IPO, consisting entirely of a fresh issue of equity shares. The company intends to use the IPO proceeds to establish 15 new stores by fiscal year 2028 and for marketing initiatives.

India’s apparel exports saw a significant boost in May. The growth is attributed to Western buyers seeking alternatives to Bangladesh and China. Political factors and duty advantages are also playing a role. The industry anticipates continued export momentum. However, rising cotton imports are a growing concern. The US market presents a major opportunity for Indian exporters.

Bluestone is preparing for its public market debut. 360 One and Centrum Wealth are facilitating secondary deals. These deals amount to Rs 300–350 crore. The transaction values Bluestone at Rs 10,500 crore. RB Investments will fully exit Bluestone through these deals. Bluestone’s IPO includes a fresh capital raise. The company reported revenue of Rs 1,266 crore in fiscal 2024.

Xtep India, managed by Virisa Sports, is set to broaden its reach across retail and online platforms, aiming for a 24% revenue surge by 2026. With over 100 exclusive stores, the sportswear brand plans to double its outlets and venture into multi-brand stores. Emphasizing domestic manufacturing, Xtep is also investing in a new Odisha facility.

UK clothing exports declined by 14.12 per cent year on year to £231 million (~$313.30 million) in April 2025, reflecting weak demand, especially from Europe.
Monthly exports also fell nearly 8 per cent.
Textile fabric and fibre exports declined modestly and sharply, respectively.
For Q1 2025, clothing exports dropped to £712 million.
Full-year 2024 saw a decline in clothing exports to £3.32 billion.