Non-tariff barriers (NTBs) are gradually emerging as a potent tool to damage and even disrupt legitimate textiles trade, the apparel export promotion council (AEPC) said on Thursday.
As many as 131 NTB notifications are issued related to the textile sector since 2019 with Uganda at the top position with 71 notifications, it said.
It was followed by Ecuador (10), China (8), Taiwan (7), Israel (5), the USA (4), and Peru (3).
These barriers include certifications, inspections, regulations, standards, SPS (sanitary and phytosanitary – related to plants and animals) measures, and technical barriers to trade (TBT).
These measures are by and large in conformity with the rules of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).
But when these measures are used unfairly, in violation of WTO agreements to discriminate against imports and restrict market access, then they become non-tariff barriers hampering legitimate trade.
The council has organized a webinar on emerging non-tariff barriers in the apparel export sector with an aim to sensitize the industry about the issue.
Most countries follow a consultation process before a new TBT is introduced or an existing TBT is modified.
Indian industry must participate in the consultation process and report its apprehension and objections to the government at the initial stage of the law-making process itself rather than complaining after its entry into force, he added.
These barriers to trade can arise due to unreasonable/unjustified packaging, labelling, product standards, complex regulatory environment, additional trade documents like certificates of authenticity, occupational safety and health regulation, and employment law.
