The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) marked its 48th Foundation Day at Apparel House, Gurugram, celebrating nearly five decades of service to India’s apparel export sector. The milestone reflects the Council’s continued efforts to represent exporters’ interests and work closely with the government and industry stakeholders to strengthen the ready-made garment ecosystem.
Chairman Dr. A. Sakthivel highlighted that AEPC’s sustained engagement has played a role in advancing policy support and market access, aligned with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision. He noted that recent Free Trade Agreements, including those with the EU and the US, are expected to significantly enhance export opportunities in two of India’s largest markets. Despite global uncertainties and supply chain challenges, apparel exports recorded a growth of 1.6 percent during April to January 2025–26 compared to the same period last year.
Encouraging performance was seen across several key markets, including Italy, the UK, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Spain, along with strong momentum in FTA partner countries such as Japan, Iceland, and Australia. Looking ahead, AEPC expressed confidence that exports to the US market could double over the next three years, reinforcing India’s long-term growth prospects in global apparel trade.
On the occasion, AEPC expressed its appreciation to the Government of India, acknowledging the continued support of the Hon’ble Prime Minister and the Ministries of Textiles and Commerce and Industry. The Council highlighted initiatives such as PM MITRA Parks, the PLI scheme, SAMARTH skilling programme, and targeted export strategies for priority markets as key drivers of future growth.
AEPC reaffirmed its focus on expanding into new and non-traditional markets, promoting sustainable and eco-friendly practices, and supporting exporters through policy advocacy, market intelligence, capacity building, and international trade engagement, as it looks toward the next phase of growth for India’s apparel export industry.
