The Powerloom Development and Export Promotion Council (PDEXCIL) has lauded the recently signed India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as a landmark development for the Indian powerloom industry. The FTA, signed on July 23, offers duty-free access to over 99% of Indian exports to the United Kingdom, including major textile categories such as cotton, synthetic and blended fabrics, made-ups, and home furnishings.
Shri K. Sakthivel, Chairman of PDEXCIL, emphasized that the agreement will boost the global competitiveness of India’s powerloom sector and empower MSMEs to expand exports into premium UK markets.
With the removal of tariffs, Indian exporters will gain parity with other developing countries and benefit from enhanced market access. The deal also opens doors for technology collaboration, skill development, and joint ventures with UK firms, aligning with the Government of India’s “Make in India” and “Viksit Bharat 2047” goals.
Chairman Sakthivel praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership, and applauded Commerce Minister Shri Piyush Goyal for his key role in securing the FTA.