CM Stalin Urges PM Modi to Tackle US Tariff Crisis

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the U.S.'s 50% tariffs on Indian exports, impacting major sectors like textiles and leather. Highlighting the state's significant export contribution, Stalin warned of economic and humanitarian challenges, emphasizing swift diplomatic action as crucial.

In a move to combat ongoing economic challenges, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging intervention over the 50% tariffs imposed by the United States on Indian exports. Stalin's letter underscores the crisis threatening Tamil Nadu's export-centric sectors including textiles, apparel, and leather.

Highlighting Tamil Nadu's pivotal role in India's export industry, accounting for 28% of the nation's textile exports and 40% of leather and footwear exports, Stalin expressed grave concern over the economic and humanitarian repercussions. The Chief Minister branded the trade impasse not merely as an economic issue but as a growing humanitarian threat.

Stalin specifically pointed to Tiruppur's 'Knitwear Capital' status, noting significant order losses totaling Rs 15,000 crores. The region faces enforced production cuts and drying orders, leading to daily revenue losses of Rs 60 crore across major districts. Far-reaching effects are seen in footwear clusters in Vellore and others, where businesses offer discounts to maintain buyers, threatening job stability.

The looming social impact worries Stalin, who disclosed workforce reductions and deferred wages. Concerns over lost international orders to countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh highlight urgent need for resolution. Urging bilateral negotiation, Stalin called for decisive action from the Prime Minister to safeguard exports and jobs.

(With inputs from agencies.)