Srinagar, Mar 26 (KNO): A delegation from the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), led by its President Javid Ahmad Tenga, called on the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Lav Aggarwal, in New Delhi and held detailed discussions on a range of measures aimed at enhancing exports from Jammu and Kashmir. The delegation also deliberated on the adverse impact of the ongoing Middle East crisis on the region’s export sector.
In a statement issued to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the delegation apprised the DGFT that exporters from Jammu and Kashmir are facing serious challenges due to disruptions in key Middle Eastern markets, resulting in delayed payments, uncertainty in orders, and mounting financial stress.
It was further highlighted that the situation has been exacerbated by a sharp increase in international air freight charges, making exports increasingly unaffordable.
President KCCI, Javid Ahmad Tenga, stated that international air cargo has become prohibitively expensive due to the ongoing crisis, severely impacting the competitiveness of exporters from the region.
He emphasised the need for timely policy interventions to address these challenges and ensure continuity of exports.
He further stated that the period of Ramadan, which is traditionally a peak season for exports from Kashmir, particularly for handicrafts and allied sectors, was adversely affected this year. Due to the prevailing situation, orders could not fully materialise, leaving exporters under stress and creating widespread concern among artisans whose livelihoods depend on these export cycles.
The delegation also raised concerns regarding liquidity constraints arising out of delayed realization of export proceeds and urged for extension and relaxation of pre- and post-shipment credit facilities. It further recommended suspension or deferment of bill crystallisation norms in view of the prevailing extraordinary circumstances and requested that exporters be provided adequate time to recover payments and stabilise operations.
During the interaction, the KCCI President outlined the Chamber’s vision to scale exports from Jammu and Kashmir to ₹10,000 crore, highlighting the immense potential of the region’s handicrafts and allied sectors. He stressed that with structured policy support, enhanced market access, and institutional handholding from the Government of India, exports from the Union Territory can significantly contribute to the country’s GDP growth.
The delegation emphasised the importance of sustained participation of the handicrafts sector in national and international fairs and exhibitions to enhance global visibility, strengthen buyer linkages, and promote “Brand Kashmir” in global markets.
Separately, the Chamber highlighted the IT sector as an emerging and independent export vertical with significant growth potential. It proposed the organisation of a dedicated reverse buyer-seller meet in Jammu and Kashmir in collaboration with the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council and KCCI, noting that the sector requires a focused policy approach to unlock new opportunities in exports and employment.
The issue of establishing adequate lab testing facilities in Jammu and Kashmir was also raised to ensure compliance with international standards and facilitate smoother export processes. The DGFT assured the delegation that a formal proposal submitted by KCCI would be examined and necessary directions issued.
The meeting was held in a cordial and constructive atmosphere. The delegation comprised Executive Committee members Muzaffar Majid Jan and Tariq Dar, and member Sheikh Idrees Zafar—(KNO)