With geopolitical developments leading to uncertainties in global markets, sale of apparel through direct-to-consumer shipments is on the rise, Matthijs Crietee, secretary general of the International Apparel Federation, told The Hindu on Friday.
Though fibre consumption is on the rise because of the growth in global population and affordability to purchase clothes, international trade is going through tough times because consumers hesitate to spend on clothing when there are uncertainties.
The apparel market has a wide variety of products and spending on luxury goods is under pressure. Where there is monetary and sustainability gain, such industries are able to meet the current challenges. The biggest costs are in selling rather than in making the garments. Hence, apparel manufacturers and sellers should work together so that the supply chain becomes cost effective, he said.
Free trade agreements do offer market access without duties to garment suppliers. However, manufacturers in the supplying countries also need to work hard and develop their business, he added.
The domestic market for apparels in India is growing at almost 5 % and direct to consumer selling is also on the rise within India. “We were with an international delegation at the Bharat Tex. We are impressed with the size, diversity, and dynamism of the Indian textile industry. It has a bright future,” he said.
Published - July 17, 2026 09:07 pm IST