Overview
On December 20, 2025, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan highlighted the necessity for India to engage in more Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). This push aims to create a level playing field for India against competitors like Bangladesh in the global textile and apparel export markets. The Vice President addressed the Apparel Exports Promotion Council (AEPC) awards event in New Delhi, emphasizing the importance of FTAs for India's textile industry.
Key Developments
FTA Importance
The Vice President noted the increasing competition in the garment export sector from countries like Bangladesh, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and African nations. He stressed that FTAs provide a significant advantage to these competing nations.
Textile Market Target
India's ambitious target is to achieve a textile market size of $350 billion by 2030, with $100 billion specifically from textile exports. The apparel industry is urged to explore new markets, adopt eco-friendly manufacturing practices, and implement responsible sourcing strategies to minimize waste.
Geopolitical Constraints and Export Performance
Acknowledging the constraints due to the geopolitical situation, the Vice President noted that India is currently the 6th largest exporter of textiles and apparels globally. In the financial year 2024-25, India's textiles and apparel exports stood at $37.75 billion. He expressed confidence that India's textile exports will double in the next three years.
AEPC's Perspective
Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman of AEPC, mentioned that despite global uncertainties, Indian apparel exports recorded a 10% growth in 2024-25. In November 2025 alone, exports grew by 11.3% over November 2024, and by 22.1% over November 2023. Cumulatively, RMG (ready-made garment) exports during April-November 2025-26 reached $10.08 billion.
Exam Relevance
This news is relevant to GS3 (Economy), particularly concerning trade, industry, and economic growth. The emphasis on FTAs, export targets, and the performance of the textile industry are crucial for understanding India's economic strategies and challenges.
Key Facts for Prelims
- FTA Advocacy: Vice President advocates for more FTAs to boost textile exports.
- 2030 Target: India aims for a $350 billion textile market by 2030.
- Current Export Status: India is the 6th largest textile exporter.
- 2024-25 Exports: India's textile exports were $37.75 billion.
- AEPC Report: Apparel exports grew by 10% in 2024-25.
Mains Examination Perspective
- Analyze the impact of FTAs on India's textile industry and its global competitiveness.
- Discuss the strategies needed to achieve the $100 billion textile export target by 2030.
- Evaluate the role of government policies in promoting sustainable and eco-friendly practices in the textile sector.