India–Afghanistan textile trade took centre stage as a high-level delegation from Afghanistan, led by Shafiullah Azam, Director General of Economic Relations, met the Indian delegation headed by A. Bipin Menon, Trade Advisor, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, on 24 November 2025 in New Delhi. The discussions focused on exploring avenues for deeper economic engagement in the textile sector, with the Afghan side emphasising its priority to strengthen the country’s textile ecosystem, create employment opportunities, and enhance training facilities for farmers entering the cotton and textile value chain.

India–Afghanistan textile trade relations reflect strong complementarities, with India being the second-largest supplier of textiles and apparel to Afghanistan, exporting USD 68.7 million in 2024. Afghanistan, which imported USD 742.8 million worth of textiles and apparel from the world in 2024, expressed interest in leveraging India’s expertise as the world’s second-largest cotton producer.

During the meeting, both sides discussed avenues for mutual cooperation, including technical support and training for Afghan cotton farmers, facilitation of shipments and visas, and closer engagement between industry bodies of both countries. The Ministry of Textiles also encouraged Afghanistan’s participation in Bharat Tex 2026.

The meeting concluded on a positive and constructive note, with both sides recognising the potential for enhanced collaboration in the textile sector in the future.

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