Rising apparel imports from Bangladesh threaten small garment makers

Foreign brands and organised retailers have increased their overseas sourcing

Apparel imports increased nearly 47 per cent to $1 billion in 2018-19 (April 2018-February 2019) even as exports fell five per cent, according to data compiled by the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI). 

The surge in imports is mainly due to big retailers opting more for low-cost foreign garments. 

Imports from Bangladesh, one of the world's largest apparel exporters, have increased by 96 per cent. Besides, imports from Sri Lanka and Hong Kong have also shown a significant rise of 120 per cent and 171 per cent, respectively.

Apparel makers say the Chinese apparel makers are reducing direct exports,