Apparels

A bill to regulate the influx of environment-unfriendly, low-quality clothes into France, primarily from China, was recently debated by the country’s Senate.
The National Assembly adopted a version of the ‘fast fashion’ bill in March 2024, but a Senate commission sought changes to better target Chinese brands.
The bill will introduce sanctions on firms based on their clothes’ environmental impact.

Nike, Inc has named Michael Gonda as EVP and chief communications officer, effective July 7, 2025.
Reporting to CEO Elliott Hill, he will lead global communications, brand reputation, and employee engagement.
Gonda previously held senior roles at McDonald’s, Chobani, and Weber Shandwick, and is known for purpose-driven leadership and impactful storytelling.

Adidas has launched the RS15 Avaglide, the first-ever women’s specific rugby boot, designed to meet female athletes’ unique foot structures and performance needs.
Developed using extensive research and player feedback, it features a narrower heel, broader forefoot fit, and enhanced arch support.
The boot debuts this summer, worn by top global rugby stars.

Gold prices may have peaked and could fall by 12–15% in dollar terms over the next two months, according to Quant Mutual Fund, though they remain a recommended long-term investment. Retail gold prices in India are around Rs 96,960 per 10 grams, rising to nearly Rs 99,868 including GST. Kavita Chacko from the World Gold Council noted that price stability might revive demand in India, the world’s second-largest gold consumer.

Gold jewellery sales in India plummeted by 30% recently, averaging 1,600 kg, as prices surged nearly 5%. This fall is attributed to rising gold prices, which dampened consumer demand despite an initial boost following Akshaya Tritiya.

The 50-per cent US tariff rate on imports from Lesotho—under suspension now for three months—has started wreaking havoc on the country’s textile exports.
Over 5,000 jobs are hanging in balance, and Lesotho Precious Garments and its subsidiary, Maseru E-Textiles, are preparing to shut down operations.
US buyers have stopped orders, opting to wait for a definitive resolution.

After building a strong digital-first brand, Zouk is now turning its focus to exclusive brand outlets (EBOs), premium product launches, and a strategic global foray, co-founder and COO Pradeep Krishnakumar said in an interview with ETRetail. “We’ve built a strong digital foundation, but we’ve always believed Zouk is a brand consumers want to touch and feel,” he said. “That’s where offline retail becomes critical.”

June is typically a bullish month for crude oil, and most of the downside has likely already played out. However, if the risk-off sentiment in emerging markets intensifies, there could be significant upside potential. A price increase of 10–12% wouldn’t be unexpected, according to the monthly report.

Egypt’s garment exports rose by 22 per cent YoY during the first four months of 2025, reaching $1.028 billion, the Apparel Export Council of Egypt said.
Such exports rose by 25 per cent YoY to $223 million in April by 23 per cent YoY to $254 million in March.
The US was the top RMG export destination, with exports to there totalling $384 million in the period—a 11-per cent rise increase YoY.

Kontoor Brands has finalised its acquisition of Helly Hansen, strengthening its position in the outdoor and workwear markets.
CEO Scott Baxter highlighted the deal’s role in boosting growth, diversification, and global reach.
The acquisition is expected to be immediately accretive to revenue, adjusted earnings per share, and cash flow in fiscal 2025, in line with the outlook shared on May 6, 2025.