29th August 2025, New Delhi – The Buying Agents Association (BAA) is taking a proactive step to address the severe impact of US tariffs on India’s $4 billion handicraft and lifestyle products export industry. The association is set to convene a critical meeting today at Le Meridien, New Delhi, bringing together all leading Trade Associations, Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), and Buying/Liaison Offices.
The meeting’s primary agenda is to forge a united industry front to tackle the escalating crisis.
Discussions will focus on the direct impact of US tariffs, which has led to widespread factory shutdowns and a significant employment crisis for millions of artisans and workers across the country.
“The handicraft sector is a cornerstone of India’s cultural heritage and a vital source of livelihood for millions of families,” said Ms Anchal Kansal, General Secretary of the Buying Agents Association. “These tariffs pose an existential threat to our artisans and the entire supply chain. Our collective voice is crucial to make a strong representation to the government and secure the necessary support to safeguard these jobs and maintain our competitive edge in the global market.”
“The BAA is committed to developing a comprehensive, joint strategy that will be presented to the Government to protect this crucial industry”, said Mr Sumit Chhabra, Vice chairman of the Buying Agents Association. We at BAA shall make all efforts to secure the hard work employment and business of this labor-intensive sector of handicraft and handloom.
The association’s leadership role in this initiative underscores its dedication to the long-term sustainability and prosperity of India’s export-oriented craft and lifestyle sector.
This meeting shall be joined Export Promotion Councils, major export associations from Delhi-NCR, Moradabad, Agra, Varanasi, Jodhpur, Tirupur, Karur to name are few are joining apart from leading buying sourcing agencies PEPCO, Flatworld, Triburg, Impulse are to join the meeting.
About the Buying Agents Association (BAA) The BAA is an Apex representative body for buying and sourcing consultants in India, dedicated to promoting and protecting the interests of its members and the broader export community. This initiative is a direct step towards supporting the Prime Minister’s vision of a $5 trillion economy, by ensuring the continued growth and stability of this significant export sector.
