India’s Target of USD 1 Trillion Goods Exports by 2030 | 16 May 2024

Source: IE

Why in News?

Recently, the commerce Ministry has initiated an exercise to identify required infrastructure needs, potential sectors, and clusters which would help the country achieve the USD 1 trillion merchandise exports target by 2030.

• However, a major future challenge lies in ensuring sustainable practices throughout the supply chain. This comes in the backdrop of another environmental law passed recently by the European Union (EU) - Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD).

What is the Current Status of India's Exports?

• The Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023 aims to boost India's exports to USD 2 trillion by 2030. It focuses on emerging areas of export, such as high-tech manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce.
• India’s merchandise exports increased from USD 314 billion in 2013-14 to USD 451 billion in 2022-23, growing at an average annual rate of 5%.
• In terms of export destinations for Indian goods and services, the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have remained key markets, with India diversifying in terms of export destinations to Bangladesh, Indonesia and the Netherlands.
  • However, India’s trade deficit has more than doubled in the last decade, reaching over USD 50 billion in 2022-23.

What are the Emerging Sustainability Related Hurdles for Indian Exports?

• Stricter Environmental Regulations in Importing Countries:
  • Indian exporters, like those in sectors like textiles industry (water-intensive cotton and jute farming) and others, might struggle to comply with these evolving regulations if they don’t adopt sustainable practices.
    • Example: The European Union (EU) recently passed the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD).
    • This law requires companies operating in the EU to ensure their entire supply chain (from raw material sourcing to production) adheres to environmental regulations and follows sustainable practices.
• Growing Consumer Demand for Sustainable Products:
  • Indian exporters in sectors like apparel, footwear, or home goods can lose market share if their products aren't perceived as sustainable. Consumers might choose alternatives from competitors with a stronger sustainability focus.
    • Example: Globally, consumers are increasingly choosing eco-friendly products. Fashion brands are facing pressure to use recycled materials like organic cotton or polyester.
• Supply Chain Transparency Requirements:
  • Indian exporters who cannot demonstrate a transparent and sustainable supply chain may face difficulties accessing some export markets.
    • Example: Many countries are demanding greater transparency in supply chains. This means ensuring ethical labour practices (fair wages, safe working conditions) and environmentally responsible sourcing throughout the production process.
• Carbon Pricing Mechanisms:
  • Indian exporters, particularly those in heavy industries like steel or cement production, may face increased costs due to their high carbon footprint. This could make their products less competitive in the global market compared to those with lower emissions.
    • Example: Groups like the European Union (EU) are implementing carbon pricing mechanisms like Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM to reduce carbon emissions.
• Lack of Infrastructure and Awareness:
  • India might face challenges due to a lack of infrastructure for sustainable practices like efficient waste management or readily available renewable energy sources.
  • Additionally, there may be a need to raise awareness among businesses about the importance of sustainability and best practices to achieve it.

What Steps Can Be Taken By India To Counter the Sustainability Related Hurdles?

• Global Supply Chain (GVC) Integration:
  • India needs to increase its presence in the vast network of global supply chains, which account for 70% of global trade, is a significant growth opportunity.
  • Cross-country estimates suggest that a 1% increase in GVC participation can boost per-capita income by more than 1%, particularly when countries engage in limited and advanced manufacturing.
• Infrastructure Boost:
  • India should focus on upgradation of ports, airports, and railways is crucial to handle the projected surge in exports and imports.
  • The Indian government has partnered with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for collaboration that will identify promising sectors for export growth and pinpoint the necessary infrastructure upgrades to handle the projected $2.5 trillion increase in total trade volume by 2030 - A step in the right direction.
• Voicing Collective Challenges :
  • India should raise developing countries' collective challenges related to the CBAM and CSDDD in international forums like the World Trade Organisation (WTO), asserting that it undermines the crucial principle of 'Common but differentiated responsibility.'
    • By imposing restrictions on the developing world's ability to industrialise, CBAM challenges the equity envisioned in international climate agreements.
• Consideration of Export Tax:
  • As a strategic response, India is contemplating imposing a similar tax on its exports to the EU. While this could subject producers to a comparable tax burden, the funds generated offer a unique opportunity to reinvest in environmentally friendly production processes.
    • This not only mitigates the impact of current taxes but also positions India favourably for potential future reductions.
    • The success of this countermeasure hinges on navigating these uncertainties and securing international cooperation.