India and Afghanistan Strengthen Textile Cooperation: Focus on Cotton Farming, Trade, and Job Creation
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India and Afghanistan recently held high-level discussions in New Delhi focused on strengthening their important partnership in the textile sector. These constructive talks aimed to deepen economic ties and identify new avenues for both nations to collaborate across the entire cotton and textile industry value chain. This joint effort is seen as a significant opportunity to bolster Afghanistan's textile ecosystem, create new employment opportunities, and boost overall economic activity in the country.

A key objective of the meeting was leveraging India's vast expertise in the textile field. As the world's second-largest producer of cotton, India is set to offer essential support and training programs for farmers entering cotton cultivation. The Afghan delegation expressed keen interest in this technical assistance and skill development. The goal is to build a stronger, more self-sufficient textile supply chain in Afghanistan, from the early stages of raw material cultivation all the way to industrial processing.

The discussions also highlighted the strong existing trade ties between the two countries. India is currently the second-largest global supplier of textiles and apparel to Afghanistan, with exports totaling $68.7 million in 2024. To ensure this trade grows even faster, both sides addressed crucial practical matters, including simplifying visa processes, improving shipment and logistics support, and streamlining other essential trade facilitation measures. Stronger engagement between industry bodies was also encouraged.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both Indian and Afghan officials recognizing the significant opportunities that lie ahead for collaboration. As a forward step, India extended an official invitation for Afghanistan to participate in Bharat Tex 2026. This major global textile event is expected to be a platform for showcasing innovation, forging new partnerships, and further paving the way for a robust and cooperative textile future between India and Afghanistan.

10:17 AM, Nov 25

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