AEPC Targets New Markets to Boost Indian Apparel Exports

The Apparel Export Promotion Council aims to expand the global reach of Indian apparel by exploring new markets in 2025-26. Despite challenges, Indian apparel exports grew by 11.6% during April-January 2024-25. Key government initiatives and free trade agreements are expected to further boost the sector's growth.

The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) has announced an ambitious plan to expand the international footprint of Indian apparel exports by venturing into new and non-traditional markets by 2025-26. According to AEPC Chairman Sudhir Sekhri, the initiative comes as the sector continues to experience a remarkable export growth of 11.6% during the April-January period of 2024-25.

This growth trajectory persists despite facing global economic hurdles, geopolitical tensions, and supply chain disruptions. The AEPC's strategy includes leveraging government initiatives such as the production linked incentive scheme, extension of the Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL), and established free trade agreements with the UAE and Australia.

Notably, traditional markets like the US, UK, Germany, and Spain have seen a boost in their imports of Indian ready-made garments, with growth rates of 13.8%, 8.9%, 10.6%, and 19.7% respectively, as highlighted by AEPC Secretary General Mithileshwar Thakur. These trends signal a robust outlook for the sector's expansion goals.

(With inputs from agencies.)