Rajasthan Urged to Broaden Textile Export Base to Maximise FTA Opportunities

Industry leaders call for innovation, value addition and wider district participation to strengthen the state's global export presence

Rajasthan may not fully benefit from India's expanding Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) unless export-oriented manufacturing extends beyond a limited number of districts, according to the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO).

At present, Jaipur and Jodhpur together account for nearly 48% of the state's exports, while the top five districts contribute around 60%. This concentration leaves many districts with only a limited role in global trade and restricts Rajasthan's ability to fully utilise the tariff advantages available under FTAs.

Ajay Sahai, Director General and CEO of FIEO, said sectors including gems and jewellery, wooden handicrafts, engineering goods and pharmaceuticals are expected to benefit from improved access to international markets through FTAs.

He added that Rajasthan should address regional imbalances by developing new industrial clusters, strengthening infrastructure and improving market access for industries located outside traditional export centres.

Sahai said the Centre's Districts as Export Hubs initiative is expected to play an important role by identifying products with export potential across districts, addressing supply-side challenges and preparing local industries for international markets.

He also emphasised that the focus should shift towards finished products instead of raw materials to achieve higher value realisation and build stronger global branding.

Addressing members of the Association of Garment Exporters of Rajasthan (AGES) in Jaipur, Kartikay Dhanda, Secretary, Textiles Committee, Ministry of Textiles, said Rajasthan's textile and apparel industry should make greater use of FTAs, improve product quality and adopt innovation to strengthen its position in international markets.

Highlighting the state's established textile and apparel base, Dhanda said Rajasthan has considerable opportunities to expand exports if businesses actively utilise the benefits available under trade agreements and both Central and State government schemes.

He urged exporters to adopt a long-term strategy centred on quality, innovation, value addition and sustainability to enhance competitiveness in overseas markets.

With international markets becoming more accessible through FTAs, Rajasthan has an opportunity to diversify its export basket and support more districts in joining the global value chain.