Indian exporters are closely monitoring developments in Washington as the United States reviews tariff measures and labour-related trade investigations, with industry leaders banking on the ongoing bilateral trade agreement (BTA) negotiations to preserve India's competitive position in the American market, The Time sof India reported on June 4.
Exporters said their primary concern stems from the possibility that China could face a similar levy. Indian exporters are not too worried about the latest proposal to impose 12.5% tariffs on 54 countries; they're instead fighting an all too familiar fear -- China. What really bothers them is the same levy on China, ToI's report (by Sidhartha) said.
Industry executives argued that a uniform tariff structure would dilute India's relative advantage at a time when global buyers are increasingly diversifying sourcing away from China.
Exporters maintained that India has a well-established regulatory framework governing labour practices and worker welfare.
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Industry bodies said the country's manufacturing ecosystem operates under stringent labour laws and compliance mechanisms, making it distinct from jurisdictions that have faced allegations of forced labour.
The exporting community expects trade negotiators from both countries to address any concerns through discussions as negotiations for the proposed bilateral trade pact gather momentum.
