West Asia tensions slam India’s handicrafts, mango exports
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New Delhi: The West Asia conflict is crippling India's handicrafts and mango shipments, stranding consignments and spiking costs as Middle East markets—key for 50-60% of some trades—grind to a halt during peak Ramzan demand.
Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Javid Tenga said sales have frozen, leaving exports stuck in India and payments delayed. "Handicraft exports have been impacted almost entirely, affecting the livelihoods of a large number of people associated with the sector," he told IANS, urging a six-month credit extension. Handicrafts face near-total blackout from market closures and restrictions.
DGFT's Lav Aggarwal has acknowledged pleas and promised relief.
Mango exports have shifted to costlier air cargo amid sea route chaos. Kay Bee Exports Chairman Prakash J. Khakhar noted rates doubling to Rs 600-650/kg from Rs 300, limiting routes to London, Singapore, Dubai, Hong Kong, and Goa. Exporters demand air freight subsidies, citing airline gouging under open skies.
Domestic mango prices swung from Rs 1,500-1,800/unit early on but are stabilizing with rising supplies.
(Inputs from IANS)