Apparels

French sporting goods giant says India is now central to its manufacturing, technology and supply chain strategy as it charts growth beyond retail.

The UK’s clothing imports fell 9.3 per cent year on year to £1.301 billion (~$1.760 billion) in May 2026 and were 4.3 per cent lower than April, while textile fabric imports declined 2.8 per cent annually.
In Q1 2026, clothing imports eased 3.04 per cent year on year.
Despite the slowdown, the UK’s clothing imports rose 6.05 per cent to £17.729 billion in 2025.

India can build globally recognized textile and lifestyle brands by leveraging quality and heritage. The Bharat Tex 2026 event helps artisans connect with international buyers and create livelihoods. Textile exports are projected to reach nine lakh crore rupees by the year 2030. Stronger designer houses and e-commerce visibility are needed for global brand expansion. Sustainability and collaboration will enable Indian brands to access international markets effectively.

CPSC eFiling adds an average $1,104 first-year compliance cost, affecting 43,000+ firms and 211,000+ children’s product importers.
The end of de minimis and USPS fees of up to $50 per non-compliant parcel raise fixed costs for low-value apparel shipments.
Three July policy changes favour larger brands, widening their cost and operational advantage over smaller importers.

Natural diamond brand plans to expand to 20 stores this year as it bets on India’s rise as the world’s second-largest natural diamond market

Natural diamond brand plans to expand to 20 stores this year as it bets on India’s rise as the world’s second-largest natural diamond market

The stores are directly operated by the company and are designed to provide customers with an immersive retail experience while strengthening Palmonas’ presence in the Middle East.

The Mumbai-based startup plans to use the funding to launch new products, expand its team and strengthen its supply chain. Its debut natural movement footwear is available in four colours and it also has a line-up of clothing and accessories for both men and women.

India’s DGFT has launched ‘Niryat Disha’ under the Export Promotion Mission to strengthen global branding, packaging, and labelling of Indian exports, with textiles and apparel among the priority sectors.
The initiative proposes a Unified Brand India framework, a voluntary Trust Mark, branding support, and funding of up to ₹10 crore per project, with stakeholder consultations open for 30 days.

India misses billions in apparel exports due to poor supply chain coordination. Improved planning and execution can boost garment exports significantly. Factories operate at lower sewing efficiency and struggle with on-time deliveries. Exporting fabric instead of garments reduces value addition and earnings. Addressing these issues will unlock substantial export potential for India.