India, Afghanistan Hold Talks To Boost Cooperation In Textile Sector
India and Afghanistan held a high-level meeting in New Delhi to explore deeper collaboration in the textile sector. The Afghan delegation, led by Shafiullah Azam, Director General of Economic Relations, met with the Indian delegation headed by A. Bipin Menon, Trade Advisor, Ministry of Textiles.
During the discussions, Afghanistan outlined its priorities to strengthen its textile ecosystem, create employment and expand training opportunities for farmers entering the cotton and textile value chain. The country expressed interest in drawing from India’s expertise as the world’s second-largest cotton producer.
India–Afghanistan textile trade continues to show strong complementarities. India is the second-largest supplier of textiles and apparel to Afghanistan, exporting US$ 68.7 million in 2024. In the same year, Afghanistan imported US$ 742.8 million worth of textiles and apparel from global markets.
Both sides explored key avenues for cooperation, including technical training for Afghan cotton farmers, smoother facilitation of shipments and visas and stronger engagement between industry organisations. The Ministry of Textiles also encouraged Afghanistan to participate in Bharat Tex 2026.
The meeting ended on a positive note, with both countries expressing commitment to expanding their partnership and unlocking new opportunities in the textile sector.
