Textile

Arvind Ltd reported a modest decline in profitability for the third quarter, with net profit falling 5 percent year-on-year to Rs 100.97 crore. The performance reflects a challenging operating environment marked by cost pressures and uneven demand across key markets. While revenue remained largely stable, margin compression weighed on the bottom line as input costs and operational expenses offset efficiency gains. The results underscore the near-term headwinds facing textile and apparel manufacturers amid global uncertainty.

The proposed India–European Union Free Trade Agreement is poised to significantly strengthen India’s textile and apparel exports by offering duty-free access to European markets. The move could sharply improve the global competitiveness of Indian manufacturers, who currently face tariff disadvantages compared with rivals from other exporting nations. Industry leaders and trade analysts see the agreement as a potential inflection point for India’s labor-intensive textile sector, with implications for exports, employment, and foreign investment.

Raymond Lifestyle reported a sharp decline in its Q3 net profit, down 33% year-on-year, as escalating US import tariffs and rising raw material costs weighed heavily on earnings. The apparel and textile firm cited increased expenses in sourcing and logistics as primary contributors to the margin contraction. Despite strong domestic demand for premium apparel, international headwinds and currency fluctuations eroded profitability.

Negotiations for a long-pending free trade agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union are gaining renewed momentum, with duty reductions on automobiles and textiles emerging as key discussion points. The proposed tariff liberalization could reshape bilateral trade flows, improve market access, and strengthen supply chain integration between the two economies. While sensitive sectors on both sides remain under negotiation, policymakers view the agreement as strategically important amid shifting global trade dynamics.

A major textiles fair scheduled in the coming weeks is expected to attract participation from more than 235 companies, highlighting the scale and resilience of the textile and apparel industry. The event will bring together manufacturers, exporters, suppliers, and service providers under one roof, offering a snapshot of evolving market dynamics. At a time when global supply chains are being recalibrated and domestic production is gaining strategic importance, the fair is positioned as a vital commercial and networking platform.

India’s textile exports have continued to grow despite headwinds from international tariffs and trade barriers, underscoring the sector’s resilience and global competitiveness. Strong demand from key markets, product diversification, and government support through incentives and export promotion schemes have helped maintain momentum. Apparel, home textiles, and technical fabrics remain in high demand, while innovation in quality, design, and sustainable production has strengthened India’s positioning in global value chains.

The Northeast Textile Sector Conclave convened industry leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to explore strategies for boosting growth, innovation, and employment in the region’s textile and handicraft ecosystem. The event emphasized leveraging local resources, traditional skills, and modern technology to enhance productivity, market access, and global competitiveness. Discussions focused on value chain integration, skill development, and sustainable practices, alongside opportunities for private investment and government support.

The Indian government has forged agreements with 15 states to bolster the textile sector, reflecting a concerted push to enhance domestic manufacturing and global competitiveness. These pacts aim to attract investment, promote innovation, and support infrastructure development across key textile clusters. Industry analysts highlight that this initiative could generate substantial employment, drive exports, and position India as a global textile hub.

The Khadi Mahotsav held in Lucknow recorded a remarkable 42% increase in sales compared to the previous edition, signaling rising consumer enthusiasm for sustainable and indigenous products. The festival, featuring a wide range of handwoven textiles, apparel, and eco-friendly merchandise, attracted thousands of visitors over its duration. Organizers highlighted that increased awareness, promotional campaigns, and the appeal of handcrafted goods contributed to the surge.

The Delhi government has formalized a comprehensive plan to revitalize the Khadi and Village Industries ecosystem through a coordinated policy push, expanded market access, and targeted investment in artisan training. With renewed institutional focus and efforts to strengthen the Delhi Khadi and Village Industries Board (DKVIB), the administration aims to make Khadi more accessible, commercially competitive, and culturally relevant.