Whilst the announced levy of 25 per cent does come into effect, it would indeed be a surprising twist to our expectations on the way the trade talks were proceeding. However, having seen the several about turns on the tariff front in the case of other countries, I would not press panic buttons right now. But, if the proposed terms do come into effect, It will make our products 7-10 per cent more expensive than some of our competitors, and it will certainly hurt our Apparel exports to the US. Fortunately, this set-back has come at the time when we have just signed an FTA with UK, and are proceeding rapidly with an FTA with EU. So yes, it is tough times, but not beyond our ability to face
The above view is presented by Rahul Mehta, Chief Mentor, Clothing Manufacturers Association of India