US Tariff on Bangladesh Imports May Boost Indian Apparel Exports: CTA Apparels Chairman

New Delhi, July 9, 2025:
The recent announcement of a 35 percent tariff by the United States on apparel imports from Bangladesh has drawn attention across South Asia's textile and apparel sector. Sharing his perspective, Dr. Mukesh Kansal, Chairman of CTA Apparels, offered a measured response to the development and its possible implications for Indian exporters.

In an official press comment, Dr. Kansal stated:

“The newly announced 35 percent US tariff on Bangladesh imports into US is definitely a positive development as far as India is concerned but subject to the final application of this increase because normally it has been seen in the recent past that there are so many declarations but what is final is not known to anybody as long as Mr. President Trump is there. From India right now, with the basic duty of 10 percent and another additional duty of 10 percent, which has been going on for the last three months, our exports to the US are liable to be charged at the rate of 20 percent duty, and assuming that 35 percent duty on Bangladesh imports is the total one, and not the 35 percent plus the earlier duty of 10 percent. It is very difficult to comment on these tariff issues in such a hasty manner, and in my opinion, it will take another 2-3 weeks to settle everything, and then only a comparable study should be done, and the actual feel about India exports will be clear then only.”

Industry observers and exporters are expected to keep a close watch on policy implementation and possible changes in sourcing patterns. The full impact of the US tariff move will unfold in the coming weeks.