Industry leaders on Thursday expressed optimism that India’s economic position will strengthen further in 2026, with exports expected to gain momentum following the signing of key free trade agreements.
Experts highlighted that policy stability and expanding global trade ties will be crucial drivers of growth in the coming year. Free trade agreements with countries such as Oman, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, signed in recent months, are expected to provide a significant boost to India’s export sector.
Ashok Jirawala, president of the All Gujarat Textile Federation, said India’s rise to the fourth spot globally in economic rankings is a matter of pride.
“This achievement has been possible due to a stable government and supportive policies,” he noted. Jirawala added that measures to improve the availability of quality yarn have contributed to the textile sector’s growth. “The free trade agreements signed in 2025 have opened new opportunities for exporters. We are confident these will lead to a sharp rise in exports in the coming years,” he said.
Nikhil Madrasi, president of the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the new year has brought renewed hope for the country. “India has now moved ahead of Japan in terms of economic size and is aiming to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2028,” he said. Madrasi emphasized the importance of diversifying trade partners and building alternative global trade arrangements rather than depending heavily on the US.
Nainesh Pachchigar, Gujarat state head of the India Bullion and Jewellers Association, highlighted the role of the gems and jewellery sector in export growth. “India exports jewellery and gems worth around $7.8 million every day. The industry is working to scale this up further, and the recently signed free trade agreements are expected to provide additional momentum,” he said.
With these developments, industry experts say 2026 could mark a period of accelerated export growth and enhanced global economic standing for India.
