The Gujarat textile industry has welcomed the government’s decision to waive import duties on cotton, describing the move as a timely measure that will enhance the sector’s competitiveness, stabilize raw material supplies and support export growth.
Industry representatives said the duty waiver is expected to ease pressure on textile manufacturers facing elevated cotton prices and supply constraints. By allowing duty-free imports, mills and textile units will gain access to a broader range of cotton sources, helping them secure adequate raw material at more competitive rates.
Gujarat, India’s largest cotton-producing and textile manufacturing state, plays a pivotal role in the country’s textile value chain. The state is home to a vast network of spinning mills, weaving units, processing facilities and garment manufacturers that collectively contribute significantly to domestic production and exports.
Textile manufacturers believe the duty exemption will help reduce input costs, improve operational efficiency and enhance the competitiveness of Indian textile products in international markets. Lower raw material costs are also expected to support profit margins and encourage increased production across the sector.
Exporters noted that global textile markets remain highly competitive, with producers in several countries benefiting from access to lower-cost raw materials. The duty waiver is therefore seen as an important step toward creating a level playing field for Indian manufacturers competing in key export destinations such as the United States, Europe and the Middle East.
The measure is also expected to provide greater flexibility in sourcing cotton, particularly during periods of domestic supply shortages or price volatility. Industry stakeholders believe this will help ensure uninterrupted production and strengthen supply chain resilience for textile and apparel exporters.
At the same time, industry bodies have emphasized the need to balance the interests of textile manufacturers and cotton growers. They argue that stable pricing mechanisms and productivity improvements will be essential to ensure sustainable growth across the entire cotton-textile ecosystem.
The decision comes as India seeks to expand its share of global textile and apparel trade. With improved access to raw materials and lower production costs, Gujarat’s textile industry expects the duty waiver to support exports, attract investment and reinforce the state’s position as a leading hub for textile manufacturing and trade.
