Govt urges industry to use FTAs, focus on value addition and export markets

The government on Thursday nudged the industry to utilise free trade agreements (FTAs), focus on value addition, build resilient supply chains, and actively diversify export markets to boost manufacturing and strengthen the country's position in global trade.

All trade agreements which India has signed "is a door, but doors, however magnificently crafted, do not open themselves.

It is the industry that must walk through them," said Additional Secretary in the Department of Commerce Yashvir Singh.

He said the industry should use FTAs to expand market access, attract investment and technology, diversify supply chains, and build manufacturing ecosystems that can withstand global shocks.

The ambition is not merely to participate in global manufacturing but to make India a reliable, competitive, and trusted partner in global value chains, he said said at a manufacturing conclave.

"I place before this audience five imperatives, not suggestions, but strategic obligations.

First, invest in