Tamil Nadu has once again cemented its status as India’s textile export powerhouse, recording robust growth and expanding its lead over other states. A combination of strategic policy support, infrastructure, and global sourcing shifts has strengthened the state’s dominance in the textile sector.
Key Highlights from FY 2024-25
1. India’s Top Textile Exporter
Tamil Nadu emerged as the top exporter of textiles, contributing 26.81% of India’s total textile exports. With a well-integrated value chain and export-ready infrastructure, the state continues to be the preferred choice for international buyers.
2. Export Value Climbs to $7.99 Billion
Tamil Nadu’s textile export value surged to $7.99 billion, out of India’s total textile exports of $36.61 billion. This marked a significant improvement over the previous year.
3. Sharp Year-over-Year Growth
Compared to $7.15 billion (20.78%) in FY 2023-24, Tamil Nadu’s export share rose by 6.03 percentage points, reflecting its upward momentum in global textile trade.
4. Lead Over Gujarat Widens
Tamil Nadu increased its lead over Gujarat, the second-largest exporter, to 7.88 basis points, up from 5.42 in the previous fiscal year—underscoring its expanding dominance.
5. Maharashtra Ranks Third
Maharashtra followed with textile exports worth $3.83 billion, contributing 12.84% to India’s total.
6. Breakdown of India’s Textile Export Categories
| Category | Export Value (USD Billion) |
|---|---|
| Readymade Garments | $15.99 |
| Cotton Yarn, Fabrics & Madeups | $12.06 |
| Man-made Yarn, Fabrics & Madeups | $4.87 |
7. Tiruppur’s Key Role
The Tiruppur knitwear cluster played a pivotal role, contributing $4.69 billion to Tamil Nadu’s exports. A rise in demand from the EU and U.S.—driven by stronger purchasing power—has fueled this growth.
8. Global Sourcing Realignment
With the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for Bangladesh set to end in 2027, global buyers are already shifting sourcing strategies. Tamil Nadu, and especially Tiruppur, is emerging as an alternative hub.
9. Ecosystem Strength
Tamil Nadu boasts a comprehensive textile ecosystem, characterized by:
- Skilled labor
- Integrated value chain
- Policy support for green manufacturing
- Infrastructure for export facilitation
10. Logistics and Port Efficiency
Upgraded logistics infrastructure and port facilities—notably in Chennai and Tuticorin—have improved shipment efficiency, further enhancing Tamil Nadu’s export potential.
Textile Export Summary by State – FY 2024-25
| State | Export Value (USD Billion) | Share of India’s Textile Exports |
|---|---|---|
| Tamil Nadu | $7.99 | 26.81% |
| Gujarat | (Approx.) $6.11 | ~18.93% |
| Maharashtra | $3.83 | 12.84% |
Conclusion
Tamil Nadu’s continued leadership in textile exports is no accident—it is the result of strategic planning, targeted policy incentives, and a forward-looking industry. With global sourcing patterns shifting and logistical capabilities improving, Tamil Nadu is poised to further strengthen its hold as India’s textile export engine.
Glottis Limited 
Leave a comment