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WWEPC Calls For Zero Duty Access For Wool And Woollen Exports In India EU Trade Pact

• By  Textile Excellence
• January 28, 2026

The Wool and Woollens Export Promotion Council has renewed its demand for zero duty access for Indian wool and woollen products under the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, citing the sector’s high employment intensity and strong linkages to traditional manufacturing clusters and MSMEs.

Indian wool and woollen exports to the European Union currently stand at over US$ 45 million annually. The segment remains niche yet value added, supporting thousands of artisans, small manufacturers, and exporters across regions such as Panipat, Ludhiana, Amritsar, Bikaner, and Bhadohi. Existing tariff barriers in the EU continue to constrain competitiveness and limit scale expansion despite strong demand for sustainable and natural fibre products.

R. C. Khanna, Chairman of the Wool and Woollens Export Promotion Council, stated that the Council has consistently advocated comprehensive zero duty market access for all wool and woollen products under the India EU FTA. He highlighted that tariff elimination would directly benefit MSMEs and traditional clusters, enabling Indian exporters to compete on equal terms in one of the world’s most quality conscious and sustainability driven markets.

The European Union remains a key destination for premium woollen apparel, blankets, carpets, and home textiles. Global demand for wool based products is rising due to increasing preference for biodegradable and renewable fibres. Industry estimates suggest that zero duty access could significantly accelerate export growth and deepen India’s integration into European value chains.

The Council expressed confidence in the leadership of the Prime Minister to secure favourable outcomes for the sector as negotiations approach finalisation. WWEPC reiterated its commitment to working closely with the Government of India to ensure that the strategic interests of the wool and woollen industry are fully reflected in the final agreement, safeguarding livelihoods and promoting long term sustainable exports.

R C Khanna, Chairman of the Wool and Woollens Export Promotion Council, stated that the Council has consistently advocated comprehensive zero duty market access for all wool and woollen products under the India EU FTA. He highlighted that tariff elimination would directly benefit MSMEs and traditional clusters, enabling Indian exporters to compete on equal terms in one of the world’s most quality conscious and sustainability driven markets.