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France's coat imports rise 18% in volume, value up 7% to $1.1 bn

French coat imports increased ** per cent to **.*** million pieces in the first seven months of this year, compared to **.*** million pieces in the corresponding period last year, according to *fashion.com/market-intelligence/texpro-textile-and-apparel/" target="_blank">sourcing intelligence tool TexPro.

The trade value rose nearly * per cent from $*,***.*** million recorded in the same period of the previous year. Volume growth outpaced value growth as the average price per piece declined. The average price stood at $**.** per piece this year, down *.** per cent during the period under review. The fall in average unit prices reflects growing consumer preference for lighter outerwear, promotional discounts by retailers to clear winter stock, and increased sourcing from low-cost Asian markets.