The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) has voiced strong support for the Government of India’s stance against the recently imposed 50% reciprocal tariffs by the United States on Indian imports.
Chairman AEPC, Shri Sudhir Sekhri, in a letter to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, reaffirmed the industry’s backing for the government’s firm position on safeguarding the interests of Indian farmers, the dairy industry, and fishermen.
Shri Sekhri stated, “I am writing to express the unwavering and unequivocal support of the Apparel Export Promotion Council and its members, for the Government of India’s stance on not yielding to the unreasonable and unethical pressure of the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the United States. As Chairman of the Council, I appreciate your government’s firm resolve in protecting the interests of Indian farmers, dairy industry and fishermen.”
He acknowledged that while the tariff hike poses a significant challenge for exporters—leading to potential order cancellations and financial losses—the industry is committed to aligning with the government’s principled approach. Discussions with the Ministry of Textiles and the Ministry of Commerce & Industry have assured the Council of continued support in addressing these challenges.
Secretary General AEPC, Shri Mithileshwar Thakur, added, “Indian textiles are globally valued for quality, sustainability, and affordability, and such barriers risk disrupting long-standing supply chains built over decades. With such a high tariff, the Indian apparel sector risks being tossed out of the US market. The industry is nonetheless prepared to bite the bullet in the larger national interest.”
Looking ahead, AEPC stressed the importance of market diversification, highlighting opportunities in West Asia, Latin America, and Eurasia, while urging a fast-tracked FTA with the European Union to ensure a level playing field against competitors such as Bangladesh and Vietnam.
