Tariff reduction under India-UK FTA will strengthen textile sector: Experts
By yash chouhan 2025-05-07 16:42:25
India-UK FTA to Boost Textiles: Experts
The Indian textile industry has welcomed the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and termed it a significant step towards increasing India's presence in the UK market. Industry leaders believe that the agreement will open doors to new opportunities for exporters, boost trade, employment and global competitiveness. Santosh Kataria, President, Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI), highlighted the potential of the UK as a growing and promising market for Indian textile and apparel products. He pointed out that the recent tariff development in the US has underlined the need to diversify export destinations, making this FTA particularly timely. "After the US's latest tariff announcement, there was a dire need to diversify textile exports and with this FTA agreement, India's knitted and woven apparel can now gain a substantial foothold in the UK market," Kataria told news agency ANI. He further added, "The emphasis on sustainability, quality and digital marketing will not only give our exports but also Indian brands an opportunity to stand out with lower prices to UK consumers." This is a great opportunity for textile stakeholders in both countries to do business.
A. Sakthivel, Vice Chairman, Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), also lauded the deal. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal for playing a key role in securing this historic trade agreement. Sakthivel said, "This is a major achievement which will provide a strong boost to India's textile exports and boost employment and growth in the sector." He added, "The India-UK FTA is expected to pave the way for long-term growth, attract investments and create a more favourable business environment for textile stakeholders in both countries." Industry leaders believe that the India-UK FTA is the beginning of a new era for Indian textiles, with long-term benefits expected in market access, innovation and global branding.
