Apparels

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.

Inditex and the Asian University for Women have launched a €3.75 million (~$4.14 million) scholarship programme to support 50 female textile workers in Bangladesh.
Starting next academic year, it will cover tuition, accommodation, and living costs for five years, aiming to empower women through education and promote professional development in the garment sector.

US’ 104 per cent tariff on Chinese apparel threatens China’s global competitiveness by drastically increasing product costs.
Vietnam, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Pakistan, and India stand to gain by offering cheaper alternatives.
While Vietnam and Bangladesh are expected to gain most substantially, India and Pakistan must address infrastructure and efficiency challenges to fully capitalise on this shift.

Puma has appointed Tara McRae (48) as president of Puma North America, succeeding Bob Philion.
Tara, who rejoined Puma in 2024 as SVP Brand and Strategy, brings extensive experience from roles at Clarks, TB12 and earlier stints at Puma.
She is expected to drive growth in this key market, with a strong focus on brand, strategy and consumer engagement.

Uniqlo’s parent company, Fast Retailing, anticipates a 14 per cent surge in Q2 operating profit, reaching 125.9 billion yen, driven by strong domestic sales fueled by tourism and a weak yen. Despite expected record earnings, the company faces challenges from new U.S. tariffs, though analysts believe the impact will be less severe compared to other industries.

Trump’s tariffs that go into effect from April 9 may delay export payments, strain supplier-retailer dynamics, and push industries to seek government support.
Banks may limit loans, while cancelled US orders flood emerging markets.
Near-shoring could rise, consumer confidence may dip, and sustainability may gain traction.
Luxury would remain subdued, while US manufacturing faces major hurdles.

“Both plain (gold) jewellery at 27 per cent YoY and coins at 65 per cent YoY respectively, led this growth, reflecting high consumer preference for gold (adornment cum store of value),” the Tata group firm said.

South Korea’s apparel imports fell by 4.04 per cent to $1.944 billion in January–February 2025, driven by a drop in non-knitted apparel.
February saw a slight year-on-year rise, though imports declined month-on-month.
Exports of man-made textiles and knitted fabrics also declined compared to 2024.
In 2024, total apparel imports rose by 3.12 per cent, while textile exports saw a modest decrease.