Business Reporter :
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Nagpur, in collaboration with the Vidarbha Industries Association (VIA) and the Nag Vidarbha Chamber of Commerce (NVCC) recently conducted a seminar on the India-UK Comprehensive and Economic Trade Agreement (CETA). The purpose of the seminar was to raise awareness and provide detailed information about the CETA agreement. On the occasion, Snehal Dhoke, Assistant Director of DGFT, Nagpur; said that CETA, a Free Trade Agreement, aims to boost exports, particularly in the agriculture, engineering, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, handicrafts, and services sectors.
She highlighted the agreement’s focus on supporting MSMEs, which contribute 40% of India’s total exports and are a significant source of employment. Swapnil Ahirkar, Vice President of the Chamber, stated that the Indian government’s goal is to reach a $5 trillion export target by 2028. He mentioned that India's exports in June were valued at $3435.11 billion. He also noted that the recent tariff increase announced by the U.S. will primarily affect the electronics, textiles, pharma, and precious gems industries.
Nitin Agrawal, Joint Secretary of VIA, also expressed his views.