New Delhi: The Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) stated on Friday that the 25% tariffs imposed by the US will harm India’s textile and apparel exports, urging the government to step in and support exporters.

US President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on Indian exports, effective from August 7.

CITI suggested that the government should ensure the availability of raw materials at internationally competitive rates for the sector, enabling domestic exporters to compete with global firms.

The chairman of CITI noted that the US decision to significantly reduce tariffs for competitive countries like Bangladesh will further challenge India’s textile and apparel exporters.

The new US tariffs stand at 20% for Bangladesh, 19% each for Indonesia and Cambodia, and 20% for Vietnam. Currently, China is the largest exporter of textiles and apparel to the US, followed by Vietnam, India, and Bangladesh.

The US is India’s largest market for textile and apparel exports. India has set a target of $100 billion in textile exports by 2030.

CITI expressed hope for the early implementation of the proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) between India and the US.

“India must always protect its national interests when signing any trade agreement,” the chairman added.

Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI)

The Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) is the apex industry body representing India’s textile sector, established in 1958 to promote growth, innovation, and policy advocacy. It plays a key role in shaping textile policies, fostering trade, and supporting sustainable development in one of India’s oldest and most vital industries. CITI collaborates with government and stakeholders to enhance competitiveness and address challenges in the global textile market.

New Delhi

New Delhi, the capital of India, was officially established in 1911 during British colonial rule and designed by architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker. It replaced Kolkata (Calcutta) as India’s capital and features grand colonial-era landmarks like India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan (the Presidential Residence). Today, it serves as the political and cultural heart of India, blending historic architecture with modern urban life.

US

The United States (U.S.) is a diverse and expansive country in North America, founded in 1776 after declaring independence from Britain. Known for its cultural influence, democratic government, and economic power, it has a complex history including colonization, the Civil War, and civil rights movements. The U.S. is home to iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Grand Canyon, and the White House.

India

India is a diverse and culturally rich country in South Asia, known for its ancient civilizations, vibrant traditions, and historic landmarks like the Taj Mahal and Varanasi. With a history spanning over 5,000 years, it was home to the Indus Valley Civilization, witnessed the rise of major religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism, and was shaped by empires such as the Mauryas, Mughals, and British colonial rule. Today, it is the world’s largest democracy, blending deep heritage with rapid modernization.

Bangladesh

Bangladesh, located in South Asia, is a country with a rich cultural heritage and a history shaped by ancient civilizations, colonial rule, and a hard-fought independence. It was part of British India until 1947, then East Pakistan until 1971, when it gained independence after a liberation war. Today, it is known for its vibrant traditions, the Sundarbans mangrove forest, and landmarks like the historic Sixty Dome Mosque in Bagerhat.

Indonesia

Indonesia is a diverse archipelago in Southeast Asia, comprising over 17,000 islands, with a rich cultural heritage shaped by Hindu, Buddhist, Islamic, and colonial influences. Historically home to ancient kingdoms like Srivijaya and Majapahit, it later became a Dutch colony before gaining independence in 1945. Today, it is known for its vibrant traditions, stunning landscapes like Bali and Borobudur Temple, and as the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation.

Cambodia

Cambodia, located in Southeast Asia, is renowned for its rich history and ancient temples, most notably the Angkor Wat complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 12th century as a Hindu temple later transformed into a Buddhist site. The country was home to the powerful Khmer Empire (9th–15th centuries) before enduring colonial rule under France and later the tragic Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. Today, Cambodia is a vibrant nation known for its cultural heritage, resilient people, and stunning landscapes.

Vietnam

Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country with a rich history spanning thousands of years, influenced by Chinese, French, and indigenous cultures. It is known for its ancient temples, bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and stunning landscapes such as Ha Long Bay and the Mekong Delta. The country gained independence after prolonged struggles, including the Vietnam War, and is now a vibrant mix of tradition and modernity.