What Fuels the Growth of India’s Export Saree Industry?

The export saree industry in India represents the large-scale production and international sale of sarees that showcase India’s rich cultural heritage, regional craftsmanship, and textile innovation. This industry not only sustains millions of artisans and weavers but also bridges tradition with global fashion trends, driving significant economic growth through expanding markets across the world. Strong growth projections, deep-rooted cultural demand and traditions, and opportunities back India’s export saree industry. By 2025, the market is expected to reach Rs. 61,700 crore, growing steadily at 6% annually. If this rising global interest continues, the total value of the saree market worldwide is expected to reach $7.9 billion by 2029. Sarees already account for approximately 33% of India’s women’s wear segment, underscoring their continued relevance in both everyday wear and festive fashion. Though rural India leads in consumption volume, it’s urban buyers who generate more revenue, favouring high-value designer and silk sarees. 

Man-made and blended fibres dominate at 72%, followed by cotton at 26% and silk at just 2%. Despite its potential, the saree industry is highly unorganised. Online marketplaces and emerging brands are changing how sarees are bought and sold globally.

This blog will explore the latest trends and insights about the Indian saree market, the growing demand for sarees in the international market, future projections, and more.

What Is Driving the Cultural and Commercial Appeal of Sarees in India?

The roots of the saree can be traced back to the Indus Valley Civilisation. In India, it’s a living symbol of grace, pride, and tradition, and not only an attire for women. 

Every region in India boasts its unique saree styles, such as Banarasi from Uttar Pradesh, Kanjeevaram from Tamil Nadu, Bandhani from Gujarat, and Baluchari from West Bengal. Each style reflects the local artistry, history, and cultural values.

Sarees are an essential part of religious ceremonies, weddings, and festivals. Wearing a saree is often seen as a gesture of respect and a way to uphold family and societal traditions. Sarees are frequently handed down through generations, serving as family heirlooms and preserving stories and memories.

India is a global leader in handwoven saree exports, with major markets in the United States and other countries. In 2023, handloom exports (including sarees) totalled USD 10.94 billion.

Modern brands like Sabyasachi, Pratibha Sarees, and Fabindia blend heritage with contemporary fashion, making sarees accessible both online and offline. eCommerce, AI-driven customisation, and social media have broadened the saree’s appeal to younger generations and international buyers.

There is a growing demand for sustainable, handwoven sarees, with consumers prioritising eco-friendly materials and ethical production. Government initiatives, such as the Handloom Mark and GI tags, enhance authenticity and support artisans.

How Big Is the Scale and Scope of India’s Saree Business?

India’s saree business is one of the most dynamic and culturally rich sectors in the country’s textile and fashion landscape. With a market valued in billions and a legacy deeply rooted in tradition, the saree industry blends heritage with modern commerce. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown that can help you understand the real scale and scope of this industry.

Scale of the Saree Industry

India’s saree market is valued between Rs. 52,393 crore and Rs. 80,000 crore (approximately $6 billion to $10 billion), with the most recent estimates placing it at Rs. 70,000 crore ($8.4 billion) in FY24. 

Sarees remain the most favoured ethnic wear for Indian women, ranging from everyday wear to luxury occasions. Even with changing fashion trends, the demand remains steady across age groups and geographies. The saree industry is highly labour-intensive and community-driven, employing millions of workers, particularly women involved in weaving, dyeing, embroidery, finishing, and retail.

The rural sector dominates with over 60% market share. The organised sector, on the other hand, currently covers 28% of the market share, and is on track to reach 35% by 2029. This sector is led by designer labels, eCommerce platforms, and branded collections.

Regionally, the saree market is diverse and deeply embedded in local cultures:

• South India is renowned for its Kanchipuram and Mysore silk sarees, which account for approximately 50% of India’s saree market.
• In western India, Gujarat and Maharashtra hold 19% of the market share, producing Bandhani, Paithani, and more.
• West Bengal and Odisha lead the market in East India, accounting for a 19% share, with notable production of Jamdani and Sambalpuri sarees.
• Banarasi and Chikankari dominate the saree industry, with Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh holding a 14% market share in North India.

India offers millions of SKUs, made using 75+ fabrics and featuring 70+ unique print techniques. From intricate handlooms to modern prints, the saree market reflects India’s vast cultural variations. There is now a surge in ready-to-wear sarees, pre-stitched drapes, and fusion designs that appeal to younger buyers. Influencers and celebrities are fueling demand for creative styling and personalisation.

Over 27% of saree purchases today fall into the premium segment (above Rs. 10,000). This shift signals rising interest in luxury textiles, bridal exclusives, and designer pieces with artisanal value.

Digital platforms are also playing a crucial role in transforming the saree retail industry. Major online retailers and stores specialising in ethnic wear, such as sarees, are making it easy for people, both in India and abroad, to purchase sarees online. WhatsApp sellers, Instagram boutiques, and D2C brands empower even rural weavers to sell worldwide.

Scope of the Saree Industry

India is the world’s largest producer and exporter of sarees, surpassing competitors such as Peru and China. Saree exports account for approximately 20% of the total saree market value, with an estimated export opportunity of $1.14 billion in 2024, projected to reach $1.58 billion by 2029. Exports exceeded $300 million annually, and 75,133 saree shipments were recorded between November 2023 and October 2024, representing a 6% YoY growth. 

Top export destinations for sarees include:

• USA
• UAE
• UK
• Canada
• Malaysia
• Singapore

Key saree exports come from Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Assam, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Telangana.

The saree business directly supports millions of women artisans, weavers, designers, and entrepreneurs. It plays a crucial role in household incomes, especially in rural India, where saree-making is a traditional, generational skill.

Many regional sarees are protected under Geographical Indication (GI) tags, helping preserve dying crafts and techniques.

Despite its strength, the industry faces several hurdles:

• Market fragmentation: Thousands of small players lack scale and access to organised retail.
• Raw material fluctuations: The prices of silk, cotton, and synthetics often impact cost structures.
• Rising competition: Low-cost imports and fast-changing fashion trends create pressure on traditional sellers.

If you’re considering entering the saree market, there’s huge untapped potential. You can:

• Launch a region-specific brand or curated boutique.
• Build an eco-friendly saree line focusing on sustainability.
• Develop a digital marketplace for direct-to-consumer sarees.
• Create services like saree rentals, styling apps, or subscription boxes.

Innovation, digital storytelling, and transparency will be key to succeeding in this industry.

How Are International Markets Boosting Saree Export Growth?

The global demand for Indian sarees has experienced exponential growth, with international markets playing a crucial role in driving export expansion. The leading importers of Indian sarees include:

• United States
• Nepal
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• Canada
• Malaysia
• Singapore
• Sri Lanka
• Australia
• Mauritius
• Bangladesh 

Nepal accounts for around 28% of saree shipments, with Sri Lanka at 11%. International markets, especially the US and Europe, are driving demand for contemporary, easy-to-wear sarees, sustainable fabrics, and fusion designs. 

Middle Eastern countries tend to favour luxurious, heavily embroidered sarees, which are often rich in detail and made with premium fabrics. European markets, on the other hand, are showing increasing interest in organic and eco-friendly sarees. These typically use natural fibres, sustainable dyes, and environmentally conscious production methods.

Here are some factors that are fueling international demand for sarees:

• Indian Diaspora: A large and growing Indian community abroad sustains demand for traditional attire, especially during festivals and weddings.
• Cultural Popularity: Bollywood, social media influencers, and global fashion trends have increased the appeal of sarees among non-Indian consumers.
• eCommerce Expansion: Online platforms and digital marketing have made it easier for international buyers to access a wide variety of Indian sarees, further accelerating export growth.
• Customisation and Sustainability: There is a growing interest in customised, sustainable sarees, particularly in Western markets, which supports higher export values and premium pricing.

Surat, Gujarat, known as India’s textile capital, is a major hub for saree production and export, offering a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern manufacturing. Surat is also known for supplying a wide range of fabrics at competitive prices to international markets, which are then used to create sarees. Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Telangana are also significant contributors to saree exports.

International markets are expected to continue driving the growth of saree exports from India. The sector is poised for further expansion as exporters adapt to changing global tastes, invest in sustainable practices, and leverage digital platforms to reach new customers worldwide.

Why Are Indian Silk Sarees Loved Worldwide?

Indian silk sarees are now widely admired around the world, and not just among Indian communities. They have transcended cultural and national borders and are recognised globally as symbols of luxury, elegant attire, and cultural heritage. Several key factors influence their appeal in the global market:

1. Celebrity Endorsement & Red Carpet Moments

International icons such as Oprah Winfrey, Rihanna, Angelina Jolie, and Naomi Campbell have publicly embraced Indian sarees, wearing them at high-profile events and on red carpets. Their choices have amplified the saree’s global allure and inspired non-Indian audiences to appreciate this traditional attire.

2. Influence on International Fashion

Renowned fashion houses like Hermès, Chanel, and Elie Saab have incorporated saree-inspired drapes and aesthetics into their collections. At events like Paris Fashion Week and the Met Gala, elements of the saree have been celebrated, blending traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary global trends.

3. Bollywood’s Impact

Bollywood celebrities, particularly when seen wearing silk sarees at weddings or bridal events, have made these sarees highly desirable and fashionable on a global level. Rekha’s association with Kanjivaram sarees, as well as the bridal choices of Deepika Padukone, Vidya Balan, and Anushka Sharma, have set global trends, particularly among the diaspora and fashion enthusiasts.

4. Cultural Significance and Heritage

Indian silk sarees, such as Banarasi, Kanjeevaram, Bandhani, Patola, and Meenakari, are valued not only for their beauty but also for their deep-rooted cultural significance. They are integral to Indian weddings, festivals, and rites of passage, often passed down as heirlooms, which adds to their desirability abroad.

5. Global Demand and Market

Silk sarees are in high demand globally, not just in India. Skilled Indian artisans and global designers collaborate with major fashion brands worldwide. These collaborations help promote traditional Indian silk sarees on international runways and in luxury fashion markets. This demand has led to the availability of sarees in boutiques and online stores across the world, making them accessible to a diverse customer base.

6. Symbol of Sophistication

For many, silk sarees represent sophistication, craftsmanship, and timeless style. Their versatility allows them to be styled for both formal and casual occasions, appealing to fashion-forward individuals everywhere.

Which Cities and Clusters Lead Saree Exports from India?

The top Indian cities leading saree exports are:

1. Surat (Gujarat)

Widely recognised as the ‘Silk City’ and ‘Synthetic Capital’ of India, Surat is the largest hub for saree manufacturing and exports, especially for synthetic, georgette, and designer sarees. Major exporters, such as Ajmera Fashion Limited, are based here, making Surat a global leader in saree exports.

2. Kolkata (West Bengal)

Renowned for its traditional sarees such as Tant, Baluchari, and Jamdani, Kolkata is a major center for both handloom and designer sarees, serving local and international markets.

3. Chennai (Tamil Nadu)

A primary manufacturing and export hub for South Indian sarees, especially Kanchipuram and Arani silk sarees. Chennai is home to major exporters like Nalli Silk Sarees and benefits from being located in one of the top silk-producing states.

4. Ahmedabad (Gujarat)

Known for Patola and Bandhani sarees, Ahmedabad is the second-largest textile market in India after Surat, with significant saree export activity.

5. Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)

Famous for Banarasi silk sarees, Varanasi is a key export center for these luxury handloom products.

6. Bangalore and Mysore (Karnataka)

Karnataka is the largest silk-producing state in India, and cities like Bangalore and Mysore are prominent for their silk saree production and exports, especially Mysore silk.

7. Mumbai (Maharashtra)

While not as specialised as Surat or Chennai, Mumbai serves as a major trading and export point for a wide variety of sarees, including Paithani and Nauvari styles.

What Trends and Predictions Are Shaping the Saree Market?

The Indian saree market in 2025 is experiencing significant transformation, driven by evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and global influences. Key predictions and trends include:

1. Sustainability and Ethical Fashion

Sustainable sarees made from organic cotton, bamboo silk, Ahimsa silk, and natural dyes are in high demand, especially among Gen-z and millennials who prioritise eco-friendly and artisan-empowering brands. The #SlowFashion movement is gaining traction, with consumers seeking sarees that make a statement of purpose and environmental consciousness.

2. Digital Innovation and Customisation

Digital prints and AI-generated patterns are redefining saree aesthetics, allowing for hyper-personalised designs and futuristic motifs that cater to individual tastes.

eCommerce and digital platforms are streamlining the supply chain, enabling direct-to-consumer sales and bulk customisation for retailers. B2B eCommerce is also on the rise, with wholesalers and retailers leveraging catalogued inventories and transparent pricing.

3. Designer Sarees and Urban-Rural Dynamics

Designer sarees are seeing rapid adoption not just in metros but also in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, driven by increasing disposable income and fashion consciousness. While rural India still accounts for about 60% of saree sales by volume, urban markets are driving higher revenue through demand for silk and designer sarees.

4. Globalisation and Export Growth

The saree is becoming a global fashion icon, with strong demand from the Indian diaspora and international markets, including the USA, UAE, UK, Canada, Malaysia, and Singapore. Saree exports from India have increased significantly over the past year, underscoring the garment’s expanding global presence.

5. Fabric and Colour Trends

Traditional silks (Banarasi, Tussar, Kanjivaram) remain popular for weddings and formal occasions, while lighter silks and innovative blends are gaining favour for casual and semi-formal wear.

Pastel shades (mint green, lavender, peach, baby blue) and metallic tones (gold, silver, bronze) are trending, reflecting a blend of traditional and contemporary aesthetics. Floral embroidery, organza, tissue silk, and Maheshwari sarees are also in vogue for their elegance and versatility.

6. Distribution and Retail Evolution

The saree wholesale market is shifting towards organised, tech-savvy operations, with direct-to-retailer models ensuring faster inventory turnover and fresher collections.

What Is Driving the Cultural and Commercial Appeal of Sarees in India?

Shipping sarees internationally requires precision, speed, and reliability, especially when you’re dealing with bulk B2B orders. Shiprocket CargoX is your trusted logistics partner, designed to simplify cross-border air cargo shipping for eCommerce businesses. It enables you to focus on growing your saree business while it handles everything from documentation to delivery with expert efficiency. It removes the friction in international shipping, whether you’re exporting to Europe, the US, or the Middle East. You can enjoy a faster and more cost-efficient solution, all in just a few clicks.

Here’s why CargoX is the ideal shipping partner for exporting sarees:

• Handles large, complex saree orders with digitised workflows and instant access to global logistics.
• Get quotations quickly and enjoy pickup within 24 hours. Select shipping timelines that align with your budget and delivery expectations.
• Track every step of your saree shipment in real-time with clear invoicing and complete visibility, and no hidden surprises.
• Ship without weight restrictions to over 220+ countries & territories using an extensive courier network built for growth.
• Leverage tailor-made shipping plans designed specifically for the textile and apparel sector.
• Meet international delivery deadlines confidently with a 90% on-time shipment record.
• It offers unrivalled support for handling cross-border delivery issues, helping you protect your reputation and bottom line.

Conclusion

India’s export saree industry is a powerful proof of how culture can drive commerce. Each saree is rooted in centuries-old traditions, telling a story of craftsmanship, regional heritage, and timeless beauty. This cultural richness continues to attract global markets, turning sarees into not just fashion statements but symbols of identity and elegance worldwide. The global demand for sarees is growing, which is creating opportunities to elevate India’s legacy further by supporting artisans, ensuring quality, and adopting sustainable practices.

The future of the saree industry depends heavily on businesses’ ability to blend tradition with innovation. Indian sarees are perfectly positioned to dominate global markets. Leveraging these opportunities means they are not only boosting the economy but also preserving an art form that continues to evolve across borders. You can also use the power of CargoX to expand your saree business globally.