New Delhi, 6 January 2026: Soon after assuming charge as Chairman of the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), Dr A. Sakthivel paid a courtesy visit to the Hon’ble Union Finance Minister, Smt Nirmala Sitharaman, at her office in New Delhi.
During the meeting, Dr Sakthivel conveyed his sincere appreciation for the Government of India’s continued and proactive support to the export sector, particularly labour-intensive industries such as textiles and apparel. He acknowledged key initiatives announced by the Ministry of Finance, including the Interest Subvention Scheme, Credit Guarantee support for export-linked working capital loans to MSMEs under the CGTMSE framework, and the extension of trade finance support for exports of selected products.
Highlighting the importance of affordable and timely credit for apparel exporters, especially small and medium enterprises, the AEPC Chairman requested the Hon’ble Finance Minister to consider enhancing the higher cap limit under the Interest Subvention Scheme. He noted that such a move would further strengthen the liquidity position of MSME exporters and enhance their competitiveness in global markets.
The interaction reaffirmed the Government’s strong commitment to supporting exporters and reinforcing India’s apparel export growth, particularly at a time when global trade faces multiple challenges. Dr Sakthivel reiterated AEPC’s resolve to work closely with the Government to address industry concerns and support sustained export-led growth.
