



India-EU FTA draft clarifies textile origin rules, boosts export prospects
free trade pact, opening up markets to each other in an uncertain global trade landscape. From India’s perspective, the agreement delivers unprecedented market access, with over 99% of Indian exports by trade value set to receive preferential or duty-free entry into the EU market.The rules provide some flexibility while still requiring clear value addition in India.
At the same time, the draft text clearly lists operations such as packaging, ironing, labelling or minor assembly that will not be considered sufficient production to confer originating status.The draft also provides for bilateral cumulation of origin. This means inputs that originate in the EU can be treated as originating when they are further processed in India.
For exporters who source certain fabrics or accessories from Europe, this could make it easier to meet origin requirements.The draft text further specifies a separate de minimis tolerance for textile products, rather than applying only the general 10% value-based rule applicable to most other sectors. This reflects the complex nature of textile supply chains and gives manufacturers limited flexibility in using non-originating materials.The draft text also sets out clear rules for record-keeping and verification.
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