With the world's second-largest textile and apparel market, India is a valuable trade partner with an export base contributing 3% of its GDP and more than 50% to its total export earnings. The apparel manufacturers industry in India creates one of the largest employment opportunities in the country. The main markets for Indian textiles and apparel export are the USA, EU, parts of Asia and the Middle East. The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) is the official body of Apparel Exporters that helps Indian exporters choose India as their preferred destination over other countries such as China and Bangladesh.