India Scraps Import Duty on ELS Cotton to Boost Textile Exports

The India Government has reduced ELS cotton import duty to 0%, said Cotton Association of India (CAI), boosting export competitiveness.

The move cuts raw material costs for spinners and textile mills producing premium exports.

It complements the cotton import duty exemption extended till end-December 2025, easing supply pressures.

ELS cotton (>32 mm fibre length) is vital for fine counts, with limited domestic supply leading to imports from Australia and Egypt.

Exporters say the step improves supply security and supports exports amid strong global competition.