Thu Jan 16 17:13:38 UTC 2025: ## India’s Apparel Imports Surge, Sparking Call for Domestic Collaboration
**CHENNAI, January 17, 2025** – India’s reliance on imported garments is growing, with preliminary figures indicating a significant increase in apparel imports during the first eight months of the fiscal year 2024-25. According to the Indian Texpreneurs Federation (ITF), imports reached ₹8,900 crore (approximately $1.07 billion USD) between April and November 2024, and are projected to reach nearly ₹13,000 crore (approximately $1.57 billion USD) by the year’s end.
The ITF highlights that major import sources include Bangladesh, China, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka, with significant purchases in cotton, man-made fiber, knitted, and woven apparel. Prabhu Dhamodharan, convenor of the ITF, emphasized the need for closer collaboration between Indian textile clusters and retail brands. He argues that by addressing issues of pricing, quality, design, and product range, domestic manufacturers can effectively meet the existing demand.
Dhamodharan urged retail brands to prioritize partnerships with domestic manufacturers to create more robust supply chains, reduce import dependency, and boost local production. He stressed the potential for job creation and the development of a globally competitive apparel manufacturing sector through increased domestic sourcing. The ITF’s statement underscores the urgency of strengthening domestic sourcing to enhance India’s self-reliance in the textile industry.
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