Indian textile market: Trends, players, and what’s driving growth

When you think of the Indian textile market, a vast, centuries-old industry that produces everything from handwoven cotton to high-tech technical fabrics for global brands. Also known as Indian fabric industry, it employs over 45 million people and contributes nearly 2% to India’s GDP. This isn’t just about saris and shawls—it’s a complex ecosystem of small weavers, large exporters, chemical suppliers, and designers turning traditional crafts into global fashion.

The textile manufacturing India, a sector that includes spinning, weaving, dyeing, and garment production. Also known as Indian fabric production, it’s concentrated in states like Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh. Tiruppur alone exports over $4 billion in knitwear every year, making it one of the world’s top textile hubs. Meanwhile, cities like Surat and Bhilwara dominate synthetic and denim production, feeding global retailers from H&M to Zara. What’s changing? Demand for sustainable fabrics India, eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, bamboo fiber, and recycled polyester made locally. Also known as green textiles India, they’re no longer niche—they’re required by EU and US buyers who now demand traceability and low carbon footprints. Companies that used to focus only on low cost are now investing in water recycling, solar-powered looms, and certified dyes to stay competitive.

The Indian fashion, a blend of traditional embroidery, modern cuts, and streetwear influences. Also known as Contemporary Indian fashion, it’s no longer just for weddings and festivals. Young designers are mixing bandhani with bomber jackets, and labels are selling Indo-Western outfits online to customers in London, Dubai, and Los Angeles. This shift means textile mills now need to produce smaller batches, faster turnaround times, and more varied prints—something big factories struggle with, but small manufacturers thrive on. Government schemes like PM-MITRA are building seven mega textile parks to boost exports, while digital platforms help artisans connect directly with global buyers.

What you’ll find in the posts below are real stories from inside this industry: how Tiruppur became the world’s knitwear capital, why Indian fabrics are now preferred over Chinese ones in some markets, how startups are making zero-waste dyes, and which Indian brands are quietly dominating global fashion retail. This isn’t theory—it’s what’s happening on the ground, in factories, and on shipping containers headed overseas.

Rajen Silverton 21 November 2025

Which Cloth Is Most Demanding in India? Cotton, Silk, and Synthetic Trends in 2025

Cotton is the most demanded fabric in India due to its comfort, affordability, and cultural importance. It dominates daily wear, exports, and government-backed manufacturing, far outpacing silk and synthetics.