Apparels

Nigeria’s CTG industry experts have urged the government to curb $4 billion in annual apparel imports and focus on domestic production to drive industrial revival and job creation.
At a stakeholder meeting in Abuja, they stressed the sector’s potential, noting Bangladesh earns over $43 billion from garments.
Capturing 10 per cent of Bangladesh’s market could generate $3.3 billion in exports.

Star Fades International, Artistic Milliners Mexico, and The LYCRA Company have teamed up to launch LYCRA FitSense denim technology.
This innovation offers targeted shaping, comfort, and a customisable fit.
Production in Los Angeles and Mexico supports faster lead times and flexibility for brands, with commercial availability set for the SS26 season.

Bangladesh’s National Board of Revenue is reportedly planning to raise its corporate tax rate from 12 per cent now to up to 20 per cent from the next fiscal, with 18 per cent for green factories (from 10 per cent now).
This is likely to hit apparel exporters as the garment sector has long been enjoying tax benefits.
IMF pressure is said to be one of the reasons behind the proposal.

Virat Kohli concluded his Rs 110-crore deal with Puma. He invested in Agilitas, a homegrown sportswear startup. Abhishek Ganguly, former MD of Puma India, founded Agilitas. Kohli’s brand, One8, will be scaled under Agilitas. Kohli aims to build a global sportswear brand from India. Agilitas has raised over Rs 530 crore from investors.

AAFA has raised concern over President Trump’s 90-day tariff pause and new tariffs on US imports from China.
CEO Steve Lamar criticised the volatility of trade policy, warning it increases costs and disrupts business.
He urged for a broader, more stable approach.
AAFA also backed the bipartisan Trade Review Act of 2025, aiming to restore Congressional control over trade policy.

The imposition of a 125 per cent US tariff on Chinese apparel significantly undermines China’s pricing advantage, causing importers to seek alternative sources.
Countries like Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Indonesia stand to gain notably across multiple apparel categories.
This trade shift presents substantial opportunities for nations with robust apparel manufacturing sectors and established trade with US.

Gold prices surged due to escalating U.S.-China trade tensions, even after a temporary tariff pause for other nations. Spot gold rose 1 per cent, fueled by uncertainty surrounding the trade war’s direction and expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts. Analysts predict further gains for gold, potentially reaching USD 3,600 to USD 4,000 within a year, driven by its safe-haven appeal amid economic uncertainties.

Jaipur’s jewellers and handicraft exporters are facing a challenging situation as American clients suspend orders due to newly implemented tariffs. This disruption raises concerns about liquidity and factory operations, potentially impacting the livelihoods of numerous artisans.

PlayR, an Indian sports merchandise brand, is experiencing a surge in demand this IPL season, projecting revenue of Rs 75 crore in FY26. Founder Ravi Kukreja attributes this growth to heightened fan engagement, digital penetration, and franchise partnerships. Chennai Super Kings merchandise, especially the ‘Dhoni 7’ jersey, leads sales.

Senco Gold & Diamonds’ topline has crossed Rs 6,200 crore, up nearly 19.4 per cent YoY, with a 14.6 per cent increase in SSSG, with non-East India revenue surpassing Rs 1,100 crore. Robust wedding and festive demand has helped the company post record quarterly revenue. Further, it expects that expansion and diamond sales will drive FY26 momentum.