CHENNAI: Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) President Vijay has called on the Central and State governments to take “wartime measures” to protect Tamil Nadu’s exporters who have been severely affected by the 50% tariffs imposed by the United States on Indian goods.
In a statement released on Sunday, Vijay described the situation as “unprecedented” and said that exporters, particularly in the textile, auto components, gems and jewellery, and pharmaceutical sectors, are on the verge of collapsing. He criticized the Central government for its failure to shield industries from global shocks and faulted the state government for “stopping with only advertisements about investment, without offering genuine relief.”
Vijay outlined several key demands to mitigate the crisis, including:
The formation of a “Union-state tariff response task force” with representatives from Tamil Nadu’s industry and trade.
The creation of a “special export stabilisation fund” by the Union government to support small and medium exporters facing order cancellations and rising costs.
A two-year moratorium on principal repayments for MSME loans.
Temporary exemption of import duties on raw materials like cotton.
A special action plan to expand exports to non-US markets.
Emergency relief from the Tamil Nadu government, including wage protection and subsidized credit.
The US’s recent decision to raise tariffs to 50% has had a significant impact on Tamil Nadu’s economy, with reports indicating a trade impact of nearly ₹3,000 crore on the Tiruppur textile hub alone. This has put thousands of jobs at risk in a state that is heavily dependent on exports to the US. Vijay’s appeal joins similar calls from other political leaders and industry bodies in the state, all urging for immediate and effective government intervention to safeguard a critical part of the economy and the livelihoods of millions of workers.
