The UK Fashion & Textile Association (UKFT) has published a new UKFT Guide to the Indian Market for Fashion and Textiles, available exclusively to UKFT members.
Produced following the implementation of the UK-India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), the guide provides practical insight for UK fashion and textile businesses looking to understand one of the world's fastest-growing consumer markets and assess the opportunities it presents.
India is expected to become a US$350 billion fashion and textile market by 2030, creating significant potential for UK brands, manufacturers and exporters. While the new trade agreement is set to reshape trade between the two countries, success in the market will depend on more than preferential tariffs. Businesses need a clear understanding of India's commercial landscape, routes to market, consumer expectations and business culture.
Developed with input from market specialists and companies already operating successfully in India, the guide offers an accessible introduction to the market, highlighting both the opportunities and the practical challenges UK businesses should consider before entering.
The publication explores topics including:
- the impact of the UK-India trade agreement for fashion and textile exporters
- market opportunities and key challenges
- routes to market and partnership models
- manufacturing in India
- major retail and wholesale players
- pricing and consumer expectations
- business culture and etiquette
- customs, logistics and labelling requirements
- major trade shows and useful industry contacts
The guide also examines the characteristics of India's highly diverse and fragmented fashion and textile market, where international brands compete alongside a strong domestic manufacturing base and established local businesses.
Paul Alger MBE, International Business Director at UKFT, said:
"The UK-India trade agreement marks the beginning of a new trading chapter between our two countries. While the agreement creates new opportunities, businesses will need to invest time in understanding this complex market and developing the right partnerships. This guide is designed as a practical starting point for UK companies considering India as part of their international growth strategy."
The guide forms part of UKFT's ongoing support for members looking to expand internationally, providing practical market intelligence alongside export advice, trade missions and business introductions.
The Guide to the Indian Market for Fashion and Textiles is available exclusively to UKFT members. Members can access the guide by emailing info@ukft.org. Businesses interested in becoming a member can contact the UKFT team to find out more about the benefits of membership and international trade support.
