As global trade dynamics shift rapidly, India’s textile exporters are closely monitoring the latest U.S. tariff hike on imports from Bangladesh, which could significantly alter the regional export landscape. While the announcement of a 35% tariff on Bangladeshi goods entering the U.S. raises hopes for Indian exporters, industry leaders are advising a cautious approach until finer details are confirmed.
In a press comment, Dr. Mukesh Kansal, Chairman of CTA Apparels, stated, “The newly announced 35 percent US tariff on Bangladesh imports into US is definitely a positive development as far as India is concerned, but subject to the final application of this increase, because normally it has been seen in the recent past that there are so many declarations but what is final is not known to anybody as long as Mr. President Trump is there.”
He further highlighted the existing tariff structure: “From India right now, with the basic duty of 10 percent and another additional duty of 10 percent, which has been going on for the last three months. Our exports to the US are liable to be charged at the rate of 20 percent duty, and assuming that 35 percent duty on Bangladesh imports is the total one, and not the 35 percent plus the earlier duty of 10 percent.”
Dr. Kansal emphasized the need for clarity before drawing conclusions: “It is very difficult to comment on these tariff issues in such a hasty manner, and in my opinion, it will take another 2–3 weeks to settle everything, and then only a comparable study should be done, and the actual feel about India exports will be clear then only.”
As policymakers and exporters await the final structure of the tariff, the Indian apparel sector is poised for potential opportunities—but only after the global trade picture becomes clearer.
