Vice President Calls for FTAs, Modernisation to Boost Apparel Exports

India’s apparel export ecosystem took centre stage at the AEPC Excellence Honours 2023–24–25, held at ITC Maurya, New Delhi, where Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, Hon’ble Vice President of India, called for accelerated free trade agreements (FTAs) and modernisation of manufacturing facilities to enhance the sector’s global competitiveness.

The prestigious event, organised by the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), recognised 27 apparel exporters for exemplary export performance during 2023–24–25, along with two individuals for their outstanding contributions to the industry. Shri Harish Ahuja of Shahi Exports Private Ltd. was conferred the Gold Trophy as Global Export Champion for 2023–24–25.

Instituted by AEPC, the Excellence Honours celebrate Indian apparel exporters who have strengthened the country’s export culture through quality, innovation, sustainability and market diversification, even amid challenging global conditions.

During the ceremony, the Hon’ble Vice President also unveiled AEPC’s coffee table book “Threads of Time: Story of India’s Textile”, capturing India’s rich textile heritage and its evolution from tradition to modernity and global leadership.

Addressing the gathering, the Hon’ble Vice President stated, “Textiles is the second largest employer, offers much better return per dollar investment and is therefore critical for the economic growth of the country.” He underscored the importance of expanding India’s free trade agreements to ensure a level playing field with competitors such as Bangladesh in global apparel markets.

Highlighting government initiatives, he added, “Initiatives such as the Production Linked Incentive Scheme and PM MITRA Parks Scheme are helping capacity augmentation and modernization of infrastructure. Skill development under SAMARTH, simplified labour codes, and ongoing Free Trade Agreement negotiations are further strengthening the ecosystem.”

“I am happy to learn that in an era defined by global challenges, our apparel exporters have demonstrated remarkable resilience and progress. Our exporters have consistently embraced new technologies to stay competitive in global markets,” he further remarked.

Reiterating national ambitions, the Hon’ble Vice President outlined the vision of achieving a USD 350 billion textile market by 2030, including USD 100 billion in textile exports and USD 40 billion in apparel exports alone. He emphasised that government initiatives reach their full potential only when matched by industry innovation and determination.

Commending AEPC’s role, he said, “I would like to commend here the role of AEPC also. I have for decades personally seen that AEPC has been the bridge between the government and the industry. It has been facilitating policy dialogue, promoting exports, supporting skill development, and ensuring that Indian apparel finds its rightful place in the world.”

Reflecting on the significance of the event, Shri Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman, AEPC, said, “This prestigious event is not just a celebration of outstanding export performance, but a tribute to the spirit of enterprise, resilience and innovation that defines India’s apparel industry. We are confident that this encouragement will inspire our exporters to face current global challenges with renewed confidence, determination, and collective strength.”

Sharing export performance data, Chairman AEPC added, “Despite global uncertainties, Indian apparel exports recorded a commendable 10% growth in 2024–25. In November 2025 alone, exports grew by 11.3% over November 2024 and by 22.1% over November 2023. Cumulatively, RMG exports during April–November 2025–26 stood at USD 10.08 billion, reflecting sustained momentum and resilience despite global headwinds.”

He also acknowledged the government’s consistent support through initiatives such as PM MITRA Parks, GST reforms, labour law reforms, the Production Linked Incentive Scheme, the Export Promotion Mission and the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Exporters, which have strengthened the sector’s foundation for long-term growth.

Addressing industry challenges, he noted, “We are mindful of the challenges before us—ranging from geopolitical tensions and global supply-chain disruptions to tariff-related issues in key markets. Yet, time and again, India’s apparel industry has demonstrated its ability to adapt, innovate and move forward.”

Dr A Sakthivel, Vice Chairman, AEPC, expressed gratitude for the Vice President’s presence, stating, “On this special day I take this opportunity to profusely thank Hon’ble Vice President of India Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan Ji whose gracious presence has given us encouragement to strive harder for the growth, and betterment of the Indian apparel export industry. On behalf of the entire apparel exporting community, I assure Hon’ble Vice President that we will leave no stone unturned to achieve the apparel export target of USD 40 billion by 2030.”

He congratulated the award winners, adding that their pursuit of excellence would inspire the next generation of apparel exporters to follow a path of sustainable success.

Highlighting the future direction, Shri Mithileshwar Thakur, Secretary General, AEPC, stated, “By embracing new technologies, design capabilities and modern manufacturing practices, apparel exporters have strengthened India’s competitiveness and built a future-ready ecosystem. Equally commendable is the industry’s transition towards sustainability. Greener supply chains and ethical sourcing are reinforcing a responsible and globally respected Brand India.”

He added that the AEPC Excellence Honours serve as a vital platform to unite industry leaders, policymakers and stakeholders in reinforcing India’s leadership in the global apparel supply chain.