If you are a fashion brand, wholesaler, or boutique owner sourcing from India, one of your first questions is:
How much does it cost to import fabric from India?
The answer depends on several factors. However, when you understand fabric pricing, MOQ, shipping, duties, and compliance costs clearly, you can calculate your total landed cost accurately.
In this guide, we break down the complete pricing structure for importing linen, cotton, silk, and sustainable fabrics from India.
🌍 1️⃣ Fabric Cost Per Meter (Base Price)
The largest component of your import cost is the fabric price itself.
Fabric Price Depends On:
- Fiber type (linen, cotton, silk, blends)
- Handloom vs powerloom
- GSM (fabric weight)
- Weave complexity
- Dyeing / digital printing / embroidery
- Order quantity
Approximate Export Price Ranges (Indicative Only)
| Fabric Type | Price Range (USD per meter) |
|---|---|
| Cotton | $2 – $6 |
| Linen | $5 – $12 |
| Tussar Silk | $10 – $25 |
| Ghicha Silk | $8 – $18 |
| Muga Silk | $20+ |
| Digital Printed Linen/Cotton | +$1–$3 extra |
Because pricing varies by customization, sampling is important before bulk confirmation.
👉 Internal Link Suggestion:
Read our full guide on choosing fabrics:
How to Choose the Right Fabric for Export
📦 2️⃣ MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity)
MOQ directly impacts pricing.
Typical MOQ in India:
- 50–100 meters per color/design (bulk)
- Lower MOQ for sampling
- Custom weaving may require higher MOQ
Smaller quantities increase per-meter cost. Therefore, buyers planning larger programs benefit from better pricing.
🚢 3️⃣ Shipping Cost (Air vs Sea Freight)
Shipping depends on urgency and order volume.
Air Freight (DHL / FedEx / UPS)
- Best for small or urgent orders
- Faster (5–7 days worldwide)
- Higher per-kg cost
Sea Freight (LCL / FCL)
- Cost-effective for bulk orders
- 20–35 days transit (depending on country)
- Ideal for USA, Europe, Australia
Shipping cost varies by:
- Fabric weight
- Volume
- Destination country
- Incoterms chosen
📜 4️⃣ Incoterms & Pricing Structure
Your total cost depends on agreed Incoterms:
- EXW: Buyer arranges everything
- FOB: Supplier delivers to Indian port
- CIF: Supplier includes freight & insurance
- DAP: Door delivery (optional)
Most global buyers prefer FOB or CIF for clarity.
💼 5️⃣ Import Duties & Taxes (Country Dependent)
Import duties vary by region:
- USA: Depends on HS code & fiber content
- EU: VAT + customs duties
- Australia/NZ: GST + import charges
- Gulf countries: Generally lower duties
Therefore, buyers must check local regulations before confirming bulk orders.
🧪 6️⃣ Compliance & Testing Costs
For Europe and North America, compliance may include:
- AZO-free certification
- REACH compliance
- Fabric composition testing
- Color fastness testing
These costs are usually minimal but essential for smooth customs clearance.
💡 7️⃣ Hidden Costs Buyers Should Consider
To avoid surprises, consider:
- Sampling courier charges
- Currency exchange fluctuations
- Bank transfer fees
- Port handling charges
- Local transport at destination
Planning ahead reduces unexpected expenses.
❓ Quick Buyer Answers
Is importing fabric from India expensive?
No. India offers competitive base prices compared to Europe and China, especially for natural fabrics.
What is the most cost-effective fabric to import?
Cotton and linen blends offer strong price-to-performance value.
Does higher MOQ reduce cost?
Yes. Larger quantities generally lower per-meter pricing.
🤝 Why Global Buyers Work with Weaveify
Weaveify supplies export-ready:
- Linen
- Cotton
- Slub
- Khadi Jute
- Viscose
- Banana Silk
- Tussar, Muga & Ghicha Silk
- Digital Printed & Embroidered Fabrics
Because we work directly with weaving clusters, we provide:
✔ Transparent pricing
✔ Flexible MOQ
✔ Export documentation
✔ Compliance support
✔ Reliable communication
🌎 Which Markets Import Most?
- USA – cotton & sustainable fabrics
- Europe – linen & handloom silk
- Australia – lightweight linen
- Gulf – breathable cotton & silk blends
- South America – cost-effective cotton fabrics
Understanding regional demand helps optimize fabric selection.
🎯 Summary
How much does it cost to import fabric from India?
The total cost includes fabric price per meter, MOQ, shipping charges, customs duties, compliance costs, and logistics fees. Working with reliable exporters like Weaveify ensures transparent pricing and smooth delivery.