AEPC delegation urges Centre to scrap 11% cotton import duty amid 45 lakh bale supply gap

Apparel Export Promotion Council, joined by Tirupur-based bodies including TEA and SIHMA, met the Vice President and ministers seeking removal of the 11% cotton import duty. Industry cites a 45 lakh bale shortfall (demand 337 vs output 292.15 lakh bales) squeezing spinning mills and exporters.

— FiledThu, 14 May, 2026, 16:16 IST·First seen Thu, 14 May, 2026, 22:46 IST·Source ET Small Business

What happened

Apparel Export Promotion Council · Apparel industry delegation led by AEPC met Vice President and ministers seeking removal of 11% cotton import duty, citing a

Key facts

  • 11%
  • 337 lakh bales
  • 292.15 lakh bales
  • 45 lakh bales

Why this matters

Distressed sourcing dynamics could surface acquisition opportunities among smaller spinners caught in the 45 lakh bale gap before any policy reversal stabilizes the sector.