India’s textile sector posted steady growth in FY 2025–26, with total exports, including handicrafts, increasing 2.1% to Rs 3.16 lakh crore from Rs 3.09 lakh crore in the previous fiscal, reflecting resilient global demand and sustained competitiveness.

Ready-made garments (RMG) remained the largest contributor, registering a 2.9% rise to Rs 1.39 lakh crore. Exports of cotton yarn, fabrics, made-ups and handloom products saw marginal growth of 0.4%, while man-made yarn, fabrics and made-ups performed better with a 3.6% increase.

Among value-added categories, handicrafts (excluding handmade carpets) recorded the strongest growth of 6.1%, highlighting rising demand for premium and artisanal products.

Geographically, exports expanded across more than 120 markets during April 2025 to February 2026, with notable growth in countries such as the UAE, UK, Germany, Spain, Japan, and several African nations, indicating wider market diversification.

The sector also continued to benefit from government support measures like the RoSCTL and RoDTEP schemes, alongside progress on multiple free trade agreements, including those with EFTA, the UK, Oman, New Zealand, and the EU. These developments are expected to enhance market access, improve competitiveness, and boost long-term export growth.

Overall, the consistent rise in textile exports, backed by policy support and expanding global reach, underscores India’s push toward higher value-added shipments and deeper integration into global supply chains.