Centre stands shoulder-to-shoulder with exporters: Nirmala Sitharaman promises relief amid tariff shock

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday assured India’s exporters that the government will stand firmly by their side as they grapple with the impact of steep tariff hikes recently imposed by the United States.

She underlined that safeguarding trade interests, protecting jobs, and sustaining economic momentum remain key priorities for the Centre.

Her remarks came during a meeting with a high-profile delegation from the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), led by President S C Ralhan.

The delegation, which included Vice President Ravikant Kapur, Director General and CEO Ajay Sahai, Israr Ahmed of Farida Group, and Pankaj Chadha, Chairman of EEPC, briefed the minister on the challenges exporters are facing, including shrinking market access, weakened competitiveness, and risks to employment.

The exporters called for timely policy interventions to help offset the strain caused by US tariffs and sustain India’s export momentum.

After the meeting, Ralhan said the Finance Minister’s assurance had boosted industry confidence, noting that her commitment highlighted the government’s determination to defend trade and protect jobs. FIEO also reaffirmed its resolve to work closely with the government to diversify markets and strengthen India’s position in global trade.