Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Feb 3: Kashmir’s carpet sector today welcomed the India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), calling it a major boost for artisans and exports, especially in handmade carpets and handicrafts.
Sheikh Ashiq, Committee of Administration, Carpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC) and former president of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), said the agreement would remove long-standing tariff barriers that had limited Kashmiri exporters.
He described the BTA as a transformative step for the region’s craft-based economy, rooted in cultural heritage.
CEPC said that Kashmir accounts for nearly 60 per cent of India’s handmade carpet exports to the US, its largest market.
“Along with the European Union, the US is a key destination for Kashmiri artisans renowned for intricate hand-knotted carpets,” it said.
Ashiq thanked the Government of India for its efforts under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, and Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh.
“We hope this will lead to further easing of trade barriers,” he said, calling the agreement a benefit not just for carpets but for the entire handicraft sector in Kashmir.
CEPC Chairman Captain Mukesh Gombar said the agreement had brought unprecedented relief, cutting tariffs from 50 per cent to 18 per cent.
He said the move restored competitiveness for Indian handmade carpets in their key export market and revived exporter and buyer confidence.
Vice Chairman Aslam Mahboob said the sector is closing the financial year on a positive note and entering the next with major policy issues addressed.
He added that trade agreements are expected to benefit India’s USD 2 billion handmade carpet industry and nearly 2.5 million artisans nationwide.
CEPC Executive Director (Officiating) Dr Smita Nagarkoti said the council will launch outreach programs to help exporters understand the opportunities, compliance requirements, and procedures under the India-US, India-UK, and India-EU agreements, ensuring the benefits reach the grassroots level.
CEPC called for close coordination with the Government of India to fully leverage the agreements for export growth, higher artisan incomes in Kashmir, and India’s continued leadership in handmade carpets.
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