The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) hosted the Excellence Honours 2023–24–25 at Hotel ITC Maurya, New Delhi, to recognise outstanding achievements in India’s apparel export sector. Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, Hon’ble Vice President of India, attended the ceremony as Chief Guest and presented awards to leading exporters.
Recognising Export Leadership
At the event, AEPC honoured 27 apparel companies for exceptional export performance during 2023–24–25. In addition, two individuals received recognition for their notable contributions to the sector. Shri Harish Ahuja of Shahi Exports Pvt. Ltd. was awarded the Gold Trophy as Global Export Champion for 2023–24–25.
Instituted by AEPC, these honours celebrate excellence in quality, innovation, sustainability, and market diversification across the apparel value chain.
Emphasis on FTAs and Infrastructure Development
Addressing the gathering, the Vice President described textiles as India’s second-largest employment generator. He highlighted the sector’s strong return on investment and its critical role in driving economic growth. To remain globally competitive, he stressed the need for India to accelerate Free Trade Agreements, especially to match the advantages enjoyed by competing nations such as Bangladesh.
At the same time, he underlined the importance of modernising factories and expanding production capacity. Government initiatives, including the Production Linked Incentive Scheme and PM MITRA Parks, are already supporting infrastructure upgrades. Moreover, skill development under SAMARTH, simplified labour codes, and ongoing FTA negotiations continue to strengthen the industry ecosystem.
Export Growth Despite Global Headwinds
Despite a challenging global environment, the Vice President commended Indian exporters for their resilience and adaptability. According to him, the sector’s consistent adoption of new technologies has helped maintain competitiveness. As a result, Indian apparel exports recorded a healthy 10% growth in 2024–25.
Looking ahead, India aims to achieve a textile market size of USD 350 billion by 2030, with apparel exports contributing USD 40 billion. However, he noted that policy initiatives achieve real impact only when industry partners respond with innovation and determination.
AEPC’s Bridging Role Highlighted
During his address, the Vice President also acknowledged AEPC’s longstanding role as a bridge between the government and the industry. Over the years, the council has facilitated policy dialogue, promoted exports, supported skill development, and ensured stronger global visibility for Indian apparel.
Industry Leaders Share Performance Outlook
Commenting on the occasion, Shri Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman, AEPC, said the Excellence Honours celebrate the spirit of enterprise, resilience, and innovation that defines the apparel sector. He expressed confidence that exporters will continue to navigate global challenges with collective strength.
Providing performance updates, he noted that apparel exports grew 11.3% in November 2025 compared to November 2024. Furthermore, exports rose 22.1% over November 2023. Cumulatively, ready-made garment exports between April and November 2025–26 reached USD 10.08 billion, reflecting sustained momentum.
Policy Support and Ongoing Challenges
AEPC leaders reiterated that such progress would not have been possible without consistent government support. Initiatives such as PM MITRA Parks, GST reforms, labour reforms, the PLI scheme, the Export Promotion Mission, and the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Exporters have laid a strong foundation for growth.
Nevertheless, challenges persist. These include geopolitical tensions, supply-chain disruptions, and tariff-related issues in key markets. Even so, industry leaders remain confident in the sector’s ability to adapt and move forward.
Commitment to 2030 Export Targets
Dr. A. Sakthivel, Vice Chairman, AEPC, thanked the Vice President for his encouragement and reaffirmed the industry’s commitment to achieving the USD 40 billion apparel export target by 2030.
Meanwhile, Shri Mithileshwar Thakur, Secretary General, AEPC, highlighted the industry’s progress in adopting advanced manufacturing practices, strengthening design capabilities, and embracing sustainability. Increasing focus on greener supply chains and ethical sourcing continues to reinforce Brand India’s credibility in global markets.
