India has set an ambitious target to double its overall textile exports by 2030, a goal that will be driven by sustainability initiatives and improved market access through trade agreements. The government has stated that agreements such as the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) will be key to achieving this target. To this end, a high-level delegation from the Ministry of Textiles, led by Secretary Neelam Shami Rao, visited London to promote India’s strengths in the sector and strengthen trade ties.
The delegation, which included representatives from all major Export Promotion Councils and leading exporters, organized a series of programs in London. These events included a Textile Roadshow and sectoral meetings with buyers and sourcing houses, particularly in the handicraft, handloom, and carpet sectors. India is currently the fourth-largest textile exporter to the UK, with exports valued at $2.16 billion in 2024-25, which constituted 6.6% of the UK’s total textile imports.
During the visit, the Textiles Secretary emphasized India’s unique ability to cater to the UK market with a combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern, sustainable practices. She also highlighted India’s focus on building transparent and resilient supply chains that align with global consumer expectations. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to leverage India’s textile heritage and manufacturing capabilities to expand its footprint in international markets.