Import/Export, Textile Industry
Global Apparel Trade and Retail Update: Key Trends for November 2025
Published on
Author: TEXTILE VALUE CHAIN
Major markets show mixed performance as import and export trends shift across regions
The global apparel industry recorded varied growth patterns in September–October 2025, with several major markets reporting strong import recovery while others faced year-on-year declines. Export performance also showcased a diverse trajectory among leading supplier countries.
Global Apparel Trade Witnesses Mixed Momentum in Late 2025
The latest global apparel trade and retail update for November 2025 reveals a varied performance across major buying and supplying countries. While markets such as the EU, UK and Japan reported significant growth in apparel imports, others like the US faced notable declines. Similarly, export figures highlight contrasting trends among top apparel-producing nations.
Apparel Imports – September 2025
- United States:
Imports reached US$ 7.3 billion, marking a 6% decline YoY, continuing the slowdown recorded in August 2025. - European Union:
The EU reported US$ 10.1 billion in imports, reflecting a strong 13% YoY increase. - United Kingdom:
UK apparel imports touched US$ 2.3 billion, rising 19% YoY. - Japan:
Japan posted US$ 2.5 billion in imports, a robust 14% YoY increase.
Apparel Exports – 2025 Performance
- Pakistan: US$ 0.82 bn, up 9% YoY (June)
- Poland: US$ 1.4 bn, up 27% YoY (July)
- Vietnam: US$ 3.9 bn, up 3% YoY (July)
- Italy: US$ 3.1 bn, up 12% YoY (July)
- Turkey: US$ 1.5 bn, down 9% (August)
- Spain: US$ 1.3 bn, up 3% YoY (August)
- Sri Lanka: US$ 0.40 bn, up 3% YoY (September)
- China: US$ 10.6 bn, down 16% YoY (October)
- Bangladesh: US$ 3.0 bn, down 9% YoY (October)
- India: US$ 1.1 bn, down 13% YoY (October)
These figures indicate strong export momentum in Poland, Italy and Pakistan, while major manufacturing hubs such as China, Bangladesh and India witnessed significant contraction.
Retail Performance – Apparel Consumption Trends
- India:
Apparel retail sales in August 2025 grew 7% compared to August 2024, driven by festive demand and improving consumer sentiment. - United Kingdom:
UK’s October 2025 monthly apparel store sales increased by 5% over the previous year, reflecting steady retail recovery.