Murasoli also referred to demands from Tiruppur hosiery trade unions calling for steps on a war footing to protect the industry and its workers.
Tiruppur exporters have reportedly begun offering discounts on US shipments, with some whose business focuses solely on the US market halting production. Chief minister M.K. Stalin had previously warned of such consequences.
The DMK daily alleged that duty drawback rates have been increased solely for Gujarat-based jewellery exporters, while Tamil Nadu-based industries have not been considered.
To protect Tiruppur industries affected by US tariffs, the editorial stated that PM Modi should immediately announce a “special fund package” to extend relief. “Will PM do it?” the daily asked.
It noted that the western region of the state had been a bastion of the AIADMK for decades and that the BJP also holds several pockets of influence there.
Days earlier, Stalin had said that 31 per cent of Tamil Nadu’s exports go to the US, making the state more vulnerable than the national average. The state government has rolled out subsidies, schemes and support, but its capacity is limited. The chief minister had urged the Union government to step in with relief measures, GST corrections, credit support and new free trade agreements.
On 28 August, Stalin stated that the 50 per cent US tariff has severely impacted Tamil Nadu’s exports, particularly Tiruppur’s textile hub, causing an estimated trade impact of nearly Rs 3,000 crore and putting thousands of jobs at risk. He urged the Centre to implement immediate relief and structural reforms to safeguard industries and workers.
With PTI inputs