Apparels

India’s textile industry has welcomed the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA), citing 100 per cent duty-free access as a boost to competitiveness and market diversification.
Industry leaders said the pact will expand exports, support value-added segments, and strengthen resilience amid global disruptions, while creating jobs and enhancing long-term trade growth.

Claire’s has abruptly closed all 154 of its UK and Ireland standalone stores, resulting in over 1,300 job losses. The teen jewellery giant’s decades-long high street presence collapsed due to a combination of online shopping shifts, rising costs, and financial struggles.

The Dominican Republic’s apparel exports fell 45.56 per cent to $97.09 million in Q1 2026, reflecting weak demand and heavy reliance on the United States, which accounted for over 86 per cent of shipments.
Limited diversification and a continued decline in annual exports highlight structural vulnerabilities and rising risks amid shifting global sourcing trends.

Around 400 RMG units have closed over three years, according to the BGMEA, which recently cautioned that many more factories remain financially vulnerable.
Exports have been falling since August 2025, implying factories are unable to operate at optimal capacity, it noted.
BKMEA said the RMG sector is facing an unprecedented crisis due to falling export earnings, lower purchase orders and rising costs.

Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) on Monday welcomed the signing of the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA), saying the pact is expected to significantly boost India’s gem and jewellery exports with zero-duty access to the market.

The ⁠launch follows controversy in June 2025, when Prada showed sandals resembling ​centuries-old Indian Kolhapuri chappals at a Milan fashion show. The designs sparked ​outrage among Indian artisans and politicians, who accused the brand of cultural appropriation.

The share of jewellery consumption fell below 60 per cent of total gold purchases in 2025 compared to long-term average of 70 per cent, domestic rating agency Careedge said in a report.

New Zealand’s apparel imports declined 1.5 per cent in FY2025-26, reflecting cautious sourcing and inventory correction, while fabric imports surged 24.2 per cent, signalling steady input demand.
March saw a rebound in imports and exports.
Fabric exports rose 33.2 per cent annually, indicating strengthening momentum in specialised textile segments.

Expressing concern over the ongoing load shedding and fuel crisis, the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association has said production is being severely disrupted due to power shortage, hitting exports.
The crisis is especially acute in some rural areas like Bhaluka, Sripur and Rajendrapur, and many factories are running at 50-60-per cent capacity.

China continues to dominate global baby garment exports over Turkiye in both value and volume, with higher unit prices reflecting stronger value-added positioning and supply chain strength.
While China’s exports remain relatively stable, Turkiye has seen declining volumes despite some price gains, underscoring competitive pressures and evolving demand trends.