Indian textile and garment exporters are witnessing a sharp increase in orders from the United Kingdom ahead of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) coming into effect on July 15, as UK buyers move to benefit from the agreement’s tariff concessions.
According to industry estimates, textile and garment orders from the UK have risen around 12% compared with the same period last year, driven by expectations of improved price competitiveness once the agreement is implemented.
“The order booking is happening for textiles and garments. Around 12% orders have been added as CETA will give a push to apparel and madeups business,” said Sharad Kumar Saraf, chairman of Technocraft Industries, a manufacturer and exporter of cotton yarn, fabrics and garments.
Under the India-UK CETA, import duties of up to 12% on textiles and clothing will be eliminated, making Indian apparel, home textiles and other textile products more competitive in the UK market.
The agreement will also remove tariffs of up to 16% on leather and footwear and up to 8% on other products.
The tariff removal is expected to strengthen India’s export prospects by improving pricing and expanding market access for textile manufacturers.
“Orders have increased 20% year-on-year in segments such as ladies handbags and shoes,” said Ramesh Juneja, promoter of Kolkata-based JC Group, a manufacturer of leather and leather goods.
The commerce and industry ministry has also asked exporter bodies to provide details of consignments expected to be shipped on the day the agreement comes into force, facilitating a smooth transition to the new tariff regime.
