What is the dress shirt manufacturing cost in India?

India is a global leader in textile and apparel production, offering competitive pricing and high-quality output. For businesses looking to source dress shirts, understanding the cost structure in India can provide insights into its affordability and efficiency.

The cost to manufacture a dress shirt in India ranges from $3 to $10, depending on fabric quality, design complexity, and production volume. Bulk orders and standardized designs lower costs significantly.

Let’s explore the factors influencing production costs, the worth of the t-shirt industry in India, and the regions that specialize in apparel manufacturing.

How much does it cost to make a printed t-shirt in India?

Printed t-shirts are a popular product in India’s apparel industry, but what are their production costs?

Manufacturing a printed t-shirt in India typically costs between $2 and $6. Costs vary based on fabric type, printing method, and order quantity, with screen printing techniques¹ being the most cost-effective for bulk orders.

Fabric rolling process

Factors Affecting T-Shirt Manufacturing Costs

1. Fabric Choice:

   • Cotton t-shirts in India² are the most affordable, while organic or blended fabrics cost more.

2. Printing Method:

   • Screen printing is ideal for bulk, while digital printing suits smaller, customized batches.

3. Order Volume:

   • Larger orders reduce per-unit costs due to economies of scale.

By optimizing these factors, businesses can produce high-quality t-shirts at competitive prices.

How much is the t-shirt industry worth in India?

The t-shirt industry in India is booming, driven by rising demand for casual and affordable fashion.

India’s T-shirt industry worth³ is approximately $5 billion as of 2023, with steady growth fueled by e-commerce and increasing consumer preference for casual wear.

Growth Drivers of India’s T-Shirt Industry

1. E-Commerce Expansion:

   • Platforms like Myntra and Flipkart make t-shirts easily accessible nationwide.

2. Youth Demographic:

   • India’s young population drives demand for trendy and affordable options.

3. Export Potential:

   • Indian-made t-shirts are highly sought after in global markets for their affordability and quality.

India’s t-shirt industry showcases significant potential for domestic and international growth.

Is it cheaper to manufacture in India?

India is known for its cost-effective manufacturing, but how does it compare globally?

Yes, it is cheaper to manufacture in India due to low labor costs, a strong textile ecosystem, and government incentives like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme⁴. The average labor cost is significantly lower than in countries like China or Vietnam.

Advantages of Manufacturing in India

1. Affordable Labor:

   • India’s labor cost averages $0.92/hour compared to $3/hour in China.

2. Textile Expertise:

   • India has a well-established supply chain for fabrics, trims, and machinery.

3. Government Incentives:

   • Initiatives support apparel manufacturing, reducing overall production costs.

India’s cost efficiency makes it a preferred destination for bulk apparel production.

Which city is famous for T-shirts in India?

Certain regions in India specialize in t-shirt production, offering unique advantages.

Tirupur in Tamil Nadu⁵ is the most famous city for t-shirt manufacturing in India, known as the "Knitting Capital of India." It accounts for 90% of India’s cotton knitwear exports.

Why Tirupur Leads in T-Shirt Production

1. Specialization in Knitwear:

   • Tirupur specializes in cotton and blended knitwear, catering to both domestic and international markets.

2. Established Ecosystem:

   • The city boasts thousands of garment units and a well-developed supply chain.

3. Export Hub:

   • Tirupur exports to Europe, the USA, and the Middle East, contributing billions annually.

Tirupur’s dominance in t-shirt production makes it a key player in India’s apparel industry.

How many T-shirts are sold in India per day?

The scale of t-shirt consumption in India reflects the country’s massive population and growing fashion industry.

India sells an estimated 2–3 million t-shirts daily, driven by both urban and rural demand. E-commerce platforms account for a significant share of these sales.

Factors Driving T-Shirt Sales

1. Affordability:

   • T-shirts are accessible across price ranges, appealing to a broad audience.

2. Casual Wear Trend:

   • Increasing preference for casual fashion drives consistent demand.

3. E-Commerce Growth:

   • Platforms simplify access to affordable and trendy options.

India’s t-shirt market reflects the growing influence of casual and affordable fashion in everyday life.

Conclusion

India’s apparel manufacturing industry stands out for its cost efficiency, textile expertise, and production hubs like Tirupur⁵. Dress shirts cost $3–$10 to produce, while printed t-shirts range from $2–$6 depending on materials and methods. With a thriving t-shirt market worth billions and daily sales in the millions, India offers immense opportunities for businesses looking to source or expand in the apparel sector.