Tiruppur’s knitwear export sector recorded robust growth in FY 2024-25, clocking exports worth Rs 40,000 crore, a 20% increase over the Rs 33,400 crore achieved in FY 2023-24. The performance surpassed the projected 10% growth, with the industry now targeting a 15% rise in the current fiscal year.

KM Subramanian, President of Tiruppur Exporters’ Association (TEA), attributed the turnaround to sustained efforts post-pandemic. “After recovering from the COVID-19 impact, we faced fresh challenges like the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Our exports, which crossed Rs 34,000 crore in 2022-23, fell to Rs 33,400 crore in 2023-24. But last fiscal, we worked collectively to regain momentum,” he said.

Highlighting sustainability as a key differentiator, Subramanian noted that Tiruppur continues to lead in eco-friendly production. “Through Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD), we recycle 13 crore litres of water daily, with 96% reused. We also generate 2,250 MW of renewable energy 2000 MW from wind and 250 MW from solar using 350 MW for industrial needs and supplying the rest to the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board.”

To combat climate change, the cluster has planted 2.2 million trees with a 90% survival rate. “These initiatives have attracted global buyers, especially from the US and Europe, aided by favourable international conditions,” he added.

Subramanian called for continued support from both central and state governments to maintain growth. “Export-linked infrastructure in Tiruppur must improve. Also, access to bank credit, subsidies, and incentives should be streamlined.”

Echoing similar optimism, A. Sakthivel, Vice-Chairman of the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), said, “Tiruppur’s 20% growth is a testament to the sustained global demand for Indian knitwear. Despite international headwinds, the sector’s momentum remains strong and is likely to continue.”

He added that India’s overall readymade garment (RMG) exports reached USD 16 billion in FY 2024-25, with knitwear accounting for 49%, a notable increase from the previous year.

S. Vijayakumar, a Tiruppur-based exporter, observed that global buyers, particularly major US brands, are increasingly sourcing from India instead of China. “Tiruppur has been on a growth trajectory for over a year, and large companies are benefiting the most due to bulk orders.”

However, he flagged price competitiveness as a concern. “While countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam are operating at full capacity, we receive orders only after them, largely due to higher raw material costs. Lowering input prices in India is essential to stay competitive.”

With sustainability, global demand, and shifting sourcing preferences driving growth, Tiruppur’s knitwear sector remains optimistic about sustaining its upward trajectory in FY 2025-26.