India-US Trade Deal to Boost Textile Sector, Create Jobs: AEPC

The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) has welcomed the India-US trade agreement framework as a historic milestone for the textiles and apparel sector. Chairman Dr A Sakthivel stated the deal will create immense opportunities across the value chain, generate substantial employment, and benefit farmers and MSMEs. The agreement is expected to eliminate tariffs, reduce compliance burdens, and strengthen India's position as a reliable global sourcing hub. Other export sectors like engineering goods and pharmaceuticals are also poised to gain from the enhanced market access.

Key Points: India-US Trade Framework to Benefit Textiles, Apparel Sector

  • Historic trade milestone
  • Boosts global competitiveness
  • Generates employment, especially for women
  • Benefits farmers and MSMEs
  • Reduces non-tariff barriers
2 min read

AEPC welcomes India-US trade framework, textiles and apparel sector to benefit

AEPC hails India-US trade deal, says it will boost exports, create jobs, and establish India as a top global sourcing hub for textiles and apparel.

"The coming decade is poised to be India's decade in textile trade. - Dr A Sakthivel"

New Delhi, Feb 7

The US trade agreement framework represents a historic milestone for India's textiles and apparel sector, industry leaders said on Saturday.

On behalf of the entire textile and apparel industry, Dr A Sakthivel, Chairman of the AEPC (the official body of apparel exporters in India), welcomed the India-US joint statement on the trade deal.

"The coming decade is poised to be India's decade in textile trade, as the country emerges as one of the most preferred sourcing destinations for global buyers," he said in a statement.

According to Sakthivel, the India-US trade agreement creates immense opportunities across the entire textiles value chain and is expected to generate substantial employment, particularly for the women and MSMEs. Farmers in rural India will also benefit significantly, reinforcing inclusive and sustainable growth.

"The tariff eliminations and enhanced market access arising from this agreement will greatly strengthen the global competitiveness of the Indian textiles and apparel sector, firmly establishing India as the most reliable and trusted sourcing hub worldwide," he noted.

This will also address the issue of non-tariff barriers to trade and reduce the compliance burden and procedural delays leading to the faster movement of goods to the US market.

"This decade will undoubtedly usher in a golden era for the Indian textile and apparel sector," said the AEPC Chairman.

The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) earlier hailed the finalisation of the India-US trade deal.

Sectors such as engineering goods, textiles and apparel, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, leather products, gems and jewellery, and agricultural products are expected to gain significantly from the tariff rationalisation.

SC Ralhan, President, FIEO, had said that the agreement would enhance the competitiveness of Indian products in the US market and provide a strong impetus to India's export growth across sectors. Lower tariffs will not only improve price competitiveness but also help Indian exporters integrate more deeply into US supply chains.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Finally some positive movement on trade! Reducing compliance delays is key. Our small export firm has lost deals because of slow clearance times. If this agreement streamlines that process, it will be a game-changer for 'Make in India'.
A
Aman W
While the optimism is good, I hope we are not just becoming a sourcing hub for the West. We should also focus on building our own global brands. The deal should include technology transfer and support for high-value manufacturing, not just stitching clothes.
S
Sarah B
As someone who sources textiles from India for a US brand, this is very promising. Easier procedures and lower tariffs mean we can plan longer-term with Indian partners. The reliability and quality are already there; this just makes it smoother.
K
Karthik V
Great for exports, but what about the local market? I hope this doesn't lead to inflation in cotton prices for Indian consumers. The farmers should benefit, as mentioned, but the government must ensure a balance.
N
Nisha Z
The textile sector employs so many women in states like Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. If this creates more jobs and ensures better working conditions, it will be a true step towards women's empowerment. Fingers crossed! 🤞

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50