Indian textiles minister Shri Shankersinh Vaghela has addressed a delegation from Kazakhastan regarding economic cooperation between the two countries and, in particular, the importance of strengthening the textile sector.

The minister reported that the value of India’s exports to Kazakhstan has grown from a figure of $47 million in 2002-03 to $79 million in 2004-05. Textile exports increased from $2.62 million in 2002-03 to $10.44 million in 2004-05, the majority of which were readymade garments. He stated that textile imports from Kazakhstan increased from $0.04 million in 2002-03 to $0.92 million in 2003-04. No imports took place during 2004-05. Raw cotton is currently the only textile item of import from Kazakhstan.

Shri Vaghela informed the delegation that the textile and clothing industry comprises 14% of industrial production in India, providing direct employment to about 35 million people, with an added 50 million engaged in allied activities. The current value of the Indian textile industry is $47 billion and is a major contributor to the nation’s foreign exchange earnings with exports of $17 billion, around 17% of India’s total exports.

The delegation from Kazakhstan came to India to seek help in developing their textile industry and to discuss business collaboration opportunities.