India’s Textiles Ministry has initiated internal discussions to secure tariff parity for domestic exporters, responding to a shifting competitive landscape in the United States.
The move comes as rival nations have been granted quota concessions under the US tariff-rate quota (TRQ) framework, creating a widening disadvantage for Indian apparel and textile firms.
The ministry is currently awaiting operational details from Washington regarding the implementation of the TRQ system before finalizing its strategy.
This development marks a significant pivot in India’s trade posture following the imposition of new duties on Indian goods by the Trump administration.
While Section 301 measures initially offered lower tariffs, the subsequent granting of quota exemptions to competitors has effectively neutralized those benefits for Indian exporters.
The ministry’s push for parity aims to level the playing field and prevent further erosion of market share in the critical US market.