Short answer
Surat's textile markets are mainly wholesale, selling in catalogue sets and bulk quantities to retailers, resellers and distributors. Some markets and shops also sell single pieces to retail customers.
The large Ring Road complexes are built for trade buyers. Prices are quoted per piece but apply when you buy a full catalogue set, usually 4–12 designs. That is why prices are close to manufacturer level.
Retail-friendly options exist. Some smaller markets, such as Rohit AC Textile Market, serve both wholesale and retail buyers, and some traders in Umarwada's New Bombay Market sell piece by piece. Old-city bazaars such as Chauta Bazaar cater mainly to retail shoppers.
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