India’s Cotton Textile Exports Drop 29% from 2021–22 Levels
India’s cotton textile exports declined significantly in 2023–24, falling by nearly 29% compared to 2021–22, according to data presented in the Rajya Sabha during the ongoing winter session.
The country exported cotton textiles worth $12,258 million in 2023–24, down from $17,166 million in 2021–22. Export volumes also saw a sharp contraction, with cotton fabrics and made-ups declining by 19% and cotton yarn exports dropping by 31%. Raw cotton exports witnessed an even steeper fall of 60%, Minister of State Pabitra Margherita said in a written reply to a query raised by MP Parimal Nathwani.
However, exports of other textile yarns and made-ups recorded a growth of 12% during the same period.
After peaking at $17,166 million in 2021–22, exports fell to $11,085 million in 2022–23 before registering a modest recovery of 11% in 2023–24. Key export markets for Indian cotton textiles include the United States, Bangladesh, China, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates.
Gujarat, which contributes around 30% of India’s cotton textile exports, also witnessed a decline—from $4,760 million in 2021–22 to $3,615 million in 2023–24.
On the production front, Gujarat remained the leading cotton-producing state, crossing 90 lakh bales (170 kg each) during October–September 2023–24. The state recorded a 20% increase in cotton production between 2021–22 and 2023–24. In contrast, Maharashtra, the second-largest producer, saw a 2% decline to 80 lakh bales, while Telangana ranked third with 51 lakh bales.
To support the sector, the government is implementing the Remission of State and Central Taxes and Duties (ROSCTL) scheme for apparel, textiles, and made-ups. It is also promoting global outreach through initiatives like Bharat Tex 2025, a mega textile event scheduled for February 2025, aimed at showcasing India’s textile value chain and strengthening its position as a preferred sourcing destination.
Additionally, India has signed 14 Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and 6 Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) to improve access to global markets. Research efforts are also underway, with ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research (CICR), Nagpur, having released 333 cotton varieties over the past decade, including 191 non-Bt and 142 Bt varieties.
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