Srinagar: The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), Kashmir Chapter, has welcomed the recently concluded India–European Union Free Trade Agreement, terming it a historic and transformational milestone that is set to significantly boost exports, strengthen domestic manufacturing and open vast global opportunities for traders, exporters, MSMEs and artisans.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, CAIT Kashmir Chapter President Farhan Kitab said the agreement reflects India’s growing economic strength and enhanced global standing. He noted that the trade pact, negotiated under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, positions India as a formidable player in international commerce.
Kitab said the agreement would provide Indian products preferential and near zero-duty access to the high-income European market of over 450 million consumers, substantially improving their competitiveness. He added that the pact has the potential to expand India’s exports and create new growth avenues for traders and manufacturers.
Labour-intensive sectors such as textiles, handicrafts, leather, pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, processed foods and marine products are expected to be among the major beneficiaries, he said.
General Secretary of the CAIT Kashmir Chapter, Peer Imtiyaz, said the agreement would open new pathways for MSMEs and emerging entrepreneurs by enabling deeper integration into global value chains. He said regions like Kashmir, known for their unique products and strong artisan base, stand to gain significantly if adequate policy support and awareness are ensured.
“For Kashmir, globally recognised for its handicrafts, handlooms and carpets, this agreement could unlock new international markets, enhance export potential and strengthen the livelihoods of thousands of artisans and traders,” Kitab said.
The CAIT Kashmir Chapter said the trade agreement aligns with national initiatives such as Make in India, Vocal for Local and Atmanirbhar Bharat, reinforcing India’s journey towards sustained economic leadership.
As part of this vision, CAIT announced the launch of the “Bharatiya Vyapar Movement,” beginning with the Bharatiya Vyapar Mahotsav to be held in New Delhi from May 1 to May 4, 2026. The Kashmir Chapter has urged traders and MSMEs from the region to actively participate in the event and leverage it to promote local products on national and international platforms.
However, the organisation also urged the government to prioritise awareness campaigns, capacity building, compliance support and export facilitation, particularly for traders from smaller cities and emerging business hubs, to ensure inclusive and far-reaching benefits of the agreement.
CAIT Kashmir Chapter reaffirmed its commitment to engage closely with the local trading community and help them prepare to capitalise on the opportunities created by the landmark India–EU trade deal.
