Export of Indian Garments: How India Ships Clothing to the World

When you buy a t-shirt or denim jacket in the US or Europe, there’s a good chance it was made in India, a global leader in textile and garment production with over 4,000 years of weaving tradition. Also known as Indian textile exports, the export of Indian garments isn’t just about low costs—it’s about skilled labor, fast turnaround, and growing design innovation. Every year, India ships over $40 billion worth of clothing to more than 150 countries, with the US alone importing nearly $10 billion in Indian-made apparel. This isn’t just assembly work—it’s a full ecosystem of spinning, dyeing, cutting, stitching, and quality control that runs from small workshops in Tiruppur to large factories in Ludhiana.

The garment export process, a complex chain involving HS codes, Incoterms, customs rules, and financing. Also known as textile export logistics, requires more than just sewing machines—it needs paperwork, compliance, and relationships with buyers who demand consistency. Many small exporters struggle with documentation, while big players like Arvind Limited and Welspun India have built systems that meet US and EU safety and sustainability standards. The Indian government’s PM MITRA scheme, a new initiative to build seven large textile parks with modern infrastructure and shared utilities. Also known as textile manufacturing parks, is helping smaller factories compete by cutting costs and improving quality control. This isn’t about replacing workers with robots—it’s about giving them better tools, training, and access to global buyers.

What makes Indian garments stand out? It’s not just price. It’s the ability to handle small orders quickly, the variety of fabrics—from organic cotton to handloom silk—and the growing design talent that’s catching the eye of European and American brands. You’ll find Indian-made leggings in Lululemon, shirts in Zara, and denim in Levi’s—all stitched in India. And with new rules on carbon footprint and ethical labor becoming standard in the West, Indian exporters who invest in sustainable dyeing and fair wages are the ones winning contracts.

Below, you’ll find real guides from exporters who’ve navigated US customs, avoided common mistakes in shipping, and figured out how to get paid on time. Whether you’re a small business owner looking to start exporting or just curious how your clothes got here, these posts give you the facts—no fluff, no hype, just what works.