US demand slowdown hits apparel, diamond exporters as factories shut and orders dry up

The apparel industry in Noida is experiencing significant upheaval, with a reduction of operational units from 2,400 to 1,800 in just six months, all due to a decline in orders. The unpredictable US tariffs have caused confusion in negotiations and production timelines. In a related trend, Surat's diamond manufacturers have extended their Diwali shutdowns, resulting in the closure of roughly 300 small businesses.