The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) celebrated its 48th Foundation Day at its headquarters, Apparel House, Gurugram, commemorating nearly five decades of dedicated service to India’s ready-made garment (RMG) export sector.
The occasion served not only as a milestone celebration but also as a reaffirmation of the Council’s long-standing commitment to strengthening India’s position in the global apparel trade.
Four Decades of Industry Advocacy
Addressing members and stakeholders, Dr A. Sakthivel, Chairman, AEPC, stated:
“The successful completion of 48 years reflects AEPC’s unwavering commitment to meeting the expectations of the apparel industry, particularly exporters. Over the years, the Council has consistently taken up industry concerns with the government and relevant stakeholders to promote, protect, and safeguard the interests of the ready-made garment (RMG) sector.”
Since its inception, AEPC has functioned as a bridge between the government and exporters, advocating policy reforms, facilitating trade promotion activities, and supporting capacity building across the value chain.
From navigating quota regimes and tariff barriers in earlier decades to addressing modern challenges such as sustainability compliance, supply chain disruptions, and market diversification, AEPC’s role has evolved alongside the industry’s transformation.
FTAs Opening New Horizons
Highlighting recent strategic developments, Dr Sakthivel underscored the importance of landmark Free Trade Agreements signed in alignment with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of strengthening India’s global trade partnerships.
“The signing of several landmark Free Trade Agreements, including the recent India–EU and India–US FTAs, covering two of our largest markets, is a breakthrough for the apparel sector,” he said.
These agreements are expected to offer significant tariff advantages and improved market access for Indian exporters, enabling them to compete more effectively with key sourcing nations.
Despite global economic headwinds, geopolitical uncertainties, and ongoing supply chain disruptions, the sector recorded a moderate export growth of 1.6% during April–January 2025–26 compared to the corresponding period of the previous financial year, a testament to the resilience of India’s apparel exporters.
Encouraging Market Performance
Exports to several key markets have demonstrated strong growth momentum. Notable increases were recorded in:
- Italy (16%)
- The UK (4.8%)
- UAE (10.6%)
- Saudi Arabia (18.5%)
- Germany (8.7%)
- Spain (7.1%)
Encouraging performance was also observed in both traditional and emerging FTA partner countries such as Japan, Iceland, and Australia.
Dr Sakthivel expressed confidence that with the operationalisation of the FTA with the United States, exports to the US market are expected to double over the next three years.
“The next decade will surely be India’s decade in apparel and textile exports,” he remarked, reflecting optimism within the industry.
Government Support Driving Momentum
On the Foundation Day, AEPC conveyed its gratitude to the Government of India for its sustained policy support.
The Council acknowledged the leadership and guidance of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Hon’ble Minister of Textiles Shri Giriraj Singh, and Hon’ble Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal for their continued commitment to strengthening the garment industry.
Several key initiatives are expected to accelerate growth in the coming years:
PM MITRA Parks are designed to create integrated textile ecosystems with world-class infrastructure, reducing logistics costs and improving efficiency.
The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme is promoting investments in value-added segments such as MMF apparel and technical textiles.
Mega Textile Parks aim to provide plug-and-play infrastructure and scale-driven competitiveness.
The Export Promotion Mission is addressing structural challenges across finance, logistics, compliance, and market access.
The SAMARTH skilling programme continues to build a future-ready workforce by enhancing skill development across textile clusters.
In addition, deeper export strategies for 40 priority countries are being implemented through active engagement with Indian missions abroad, ensuring targeted market expansion.
Complementary measures such as promoting extra-long staple cotton cultivation, improving ease of doing business, expanding credit guarantee coverage for MSMEs, and establishing national centres of excellence for skilling are expected to provide sustained momentum to the sector.
Expanding Global Footprint
Looking ahead to 2026–27, AEPC plans to intensify export promotion activities with a focus on diversification into new and non-traditional markets.
Participation in international trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, roadshows, and digital promotion campaigns will form part of the Council’s strategy to strengthen India’s global presence.
Market intelligence initiatives, capacity-building programmes, and trade facilitation efforts will continue to support exporters in navigating evolving compliance and sustainability requirements.
Commitment to Sustainability and Compliance
AEPC reiterated its commitment to encouraging eco-friendly and sustainable manufacturing practices within the apparel sector.
As global buyers increasingly prioritise environmental and social governance (ESG) standards, Indian exporters are aligning with best international benchmarks in sustainability, traceability, and ethical production.
By promoting responsible manufacturing, the Council aims to position India not only as a cost-competitive sourcing destination but also as a trusted and compliant global partner.
A Milestone and a Renewed Commitment
Reflecting on its 48-year journey, AEPC reaffirmed its dedication to achieving new milestones through proactive policy advocacy, strategic market expansion, and strong industry-government collaboration.
To mark the occasion, the Council launched a social media outreach campaign highlighting its ongoing initiatives and the government’s supportive measures for the apparel sector.
Members of the Executive Committee extended their congratulations to all employees of AEPC, acknowledging their dedication and contributions to the organisation’s continued success.
As AEPC steps into its 49th year, the message is clear: with strengthened trade partnerships, policy backing, and industry resilience, India’s apparel sector is poised to scale new heights in the global marketplace.
