Apparel exports dip 2.6 pc

The countrys apparel export declined marginally by 2.6 per cent to 10.64 billion in 2009-10 compared to the previous fiscal due to less demand from the US and European markets. The garments export stood at 10.93 billion during 2008-09,according to the Apparel Export Promotion Council AEPC data. The US and Europe,which are recovering from the impact of global recession,together account for 60 per cent of the country8217;s total garment export. There has been a weak recovery in the western markets like the US and Europe, AEPC Chairman Premal Udani said. Moreover,the exporters rue that they have been affected due to the rising fabric prices,which have made them uncompetitive in the global market.