Tiruppur Knitwear Export Cluster and Cotton Hosiery Tradition

Tiruppur district is India's knitwear capital and the world's leading exporter of cotton hosiery and knitted garments, contributing over 50% of India's knitwear exports worth USD 3–4 billion annually. The industry began in the 1920s when Gounder community entrepreneurs adapted the handloom cotton tradition to circular knitting machines, producing underwear and vest fabrics. Over decades, the cluster evolved to produce T-shirts, polo shirts, and sportswear for international brands. Tiruppur's strength lies in its vertically integrated cluster — spinning, knitting, dyeing, printing, embroidery, and stitching are all available within a 20 km radius. The SIPCOT industrial estate and the Tiruppur Exporters' Association coordinate the industry.