Top 5 Textile and Clothing Manufacturing States in India: Key Hubs for Quality Inspections and Compliance

India’s textile and apparel market size

India’s textile and apparel industry is one of the largest in the world, with a significant contribution to the global market. The sector is valued at US$ 172.3 billion in 2022, making it a key player in the global textile trade. India is the second-largest producer of textiles globally, behind China and is the largest exporter of cotton yarn in the world.

The textile and apparel market in India is projected to reach US$ 387.3 billion by 2028, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.59%. As a leading exporter, India’s textile industry contributes around 5% of global textile and apparel exports.

Additionally, the sector employs over 45 million people, making it the second-largest employment generator in India after agriculture. The country is also a top exporter to major global markets, including the USA, UK and the Middle East.

This impressive growth is driven by a combination of favourable government policies, a vast labor force and rising domestic and international demand for Indian textiles and garments.

Read more: Indian Manufacturing - What Brands Should Consider?

Top Export Destinations for India’s Textile and Apparel Products

India exports textile and apparel products, including handlooms and handicrafts, to over 100 countries, with key markets like the USA, UK, Bangladesh, UAE and Germany. The USA remains the largest importer, accounting for 29% of total exports in 2023-24, up from 24% in 2019-20. India’s Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like the UAE and ongoing negotiations with the EU, UK and Australia, are expected to further boost exports. Additionally, India’s FDI policy, offering 100% FDI in single-brand retail, attracts international retailers, enhancing its export opportunities and expanding its global market reach.

Top 5 Textile and Clothing Manufacturing States in India

The country's diverse states play a pivotal role in this thriving sector, each contributing uniquely to the production and export of textiles. Here are the top 5 Indian states for textile and clothing manufacturing, based on the ease of doing business.

1. Gujarat: The Textile Powerhouse

Gujarat is often referred to as the "Textile Capital of India" for its extensive contribution to the industry. Known for its production of cotton, denim and synthetic fabrics, Gujarat has a well-established ecosystem of textile parks and industrial hubs including:

• Cotton Production: Gujarat contributes to over 30% of India's cotton production.
• Surat's Synthetic Hub: Surat is renowned for its production of synthetic textiles, including polyester and viscose fabrics.
• Denim Leadership: Ahmedabad, known as the "Manchester of India," is a key hub for denim manufacturing.

2. Andhra Pradesh: A Growing Textile Hub

Andhra Pradesh has emerged as a key player in India’s textile sector, thanks to its favorable policies and strong infrastructure. The state focuses on integrated textile parks and modern garment manufacturing facilities like:

• Textile Parks: Home to multiple textile parks like the Brandix India Apparel City (BIAC) in Visakhapatnam.
  • Raw Material Production: Significant production of cotton and other raw materials used in textile manufacturing.
• Employment Opportunities: The textile sector is a major employment generator in the state.

3. Telangana: A Rising Star in Textile and Apparel Manufacturing

Telangana is rapidly growing its footprint in the textile and apparel industry. With its innovative policies, such as the Telangana Textile and Apparel Policy, the state is positioning itself as an investor-friendly destination Its key highlights are:

• Kakatiya Mega Textile Park: One of India’s largest textile parks, located in Warangal, aimed at attracting global investors.
• Cotton Production: Telangana is a leading cotton producer, contributing significantly to the raw material supply chain.
• Government Initiatives: Incentives and subsidies for textile manufacturing have boosted the state’s industry.

4. Haryana: A Hub for Garment Manufacturing

Haryana is a significant contributor to India’s garment manufacturing industry, especially in the export-oriented apparel sector. Gurgaon and Faridabad serve as major production hubs and known for:

• Apparel Exports: Haryana is a key player in the export of ready-made garments.
  • Skilled Workforce: Availability of a skilled and semi-skilled workforce specializing in garment manufacturing.
• Strategic Location: Proximity to New Delhi and excellent connectivity with international markets.

5. Jharkhand: Emerging as a Textile Force

Jharkhand is making strides in the textile and apparel sector by leveraging its natural resources and government initiatives. The state is focusing on creating employment through textile manufacturing including:

• Tasar Silk Production: Jharkhand is a leading producer of tasar silk, a key component in traditional Indian textiles.
• Skill Development: The state has launched various programs to train workers in textile and garment manufacturing.
• Investment Opportunities: Policies to attract private investments in textile parks and units.

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The Role of Quality Inspections in India's Textile and Clothing Industry

India’s textile and clothing manufacturing industry is a cornerstone of the global supply chain, driven by its rich history, skilled workforce and diverse capabilities. For global buyers sourcing from the top states, ensuring quality, compliance and sustainability is non-negotiable. With the expertise of third-party inspection companies like Testcoo, buyers can mitigate risks, build trust and ensure that their products meet international standards. Whether it’s pre-production inspections, lab testing or sustainability audits, partnering with a reliable quality assurance provider is essential to thrive in today’s competitive market.

By prioritizing inspections and compliance, manufacturers in India can continue to strengthen their position in the global textile industry while meeting the evolving demands of conscious consumers and international buyers.

Read more: Why Apparel Inspections Differ in China, India and Bangladesh

Partner with Testcoo for your Quality Inspection Needs in the Textile and Clothing Industry

As one of the leading third-party inspection and audit companies, Testcoo provides invaluable services to global buyers and manufacturers in India’s textile and clothing industry. From ensuring product quality to verifying compliance with ethical and sustainability standards, Testcoo’s expertise adds value across the supply chain.

Key Services Offered by Testcoo

1. Initial Production Checks (IPC): Also known as Pre-Production Inspections are known to identify potential issues before manufacturing begins.
2. During Production Inspections (DUPRO): Ensuring quality control at various stages of production.
3. Final Random Inspections (FRI): Verifying product quality before shipment.
4. Lab Testing: Comprehensive testing for physical, chemical and performance parameters.
5. Social Compliance Audits: Helping manufacturers adhere to global ethical standards like SMETA and SLCP.
6. Sustainability Audits: Ensuring compliance with eco-friendly certifications like HIGG FEM.

Why Choose Testcoo

Testcoo is a global leader in 3rd party inspections and fully accredited by ISO9001, ISO 27001, CNAS17020 and AQSIQ. We provide:

1. Comprehensive QC service support with transparent pricing
2. Reports within 24 hours via our proprietary digital platform
3. Expertise in local regulations and supply chain in India
4. Global presence in more than 30 countries working with more than 5000 brands

By prioritizing inspections and compliance by collaborating with Testcoo, manufacturers in India can continue to strengthen their position in the global textile industry while meeting the evolving demands of conscious consumers and international buyers.

Get in touch with us today for your textile and apparel quality control and inspection needs in India. ​​​​​​​