India-Russia trade ties: MoS Pabitra Margherita to visit Moscow; talks and apparel fair on agenda

Minister of state for external affairs and textiles, Pabitra Margherita will travel to Moscow this week for meetings with Russia’s Ministry of Industry and Trade and leading entrepreneurs from the textile and apparel sector, the Textile Ministry said on Monday.The visit, scheduled from October 1 to 3, comes at a time when India is scouting markets across 40 countries to expand textile exports after the US imposed 50% tariffs on Indian apparel, along with a 25% penalty on New Delhi’s Russian oil purchases.According to the ministry, the visit underscores India’s push to strengthen trade and cultural ties with Russia and to diversify markets for its textile exports, PTI reported. “These engagements will bolster bilateral trade, encourage market diversification, and enhance people-to-people linkages between the two countries,” it said.Margherita, who also holds charge as Minister of State for External Affairs, will inaugurate the “Best of India – Indian Apparel and Textile Fair” in Moscow. The event will showcase products from more than 100 Indian companies spanning handlooms, handicrafts, home furnishings, carpets, linens, apparel, and garments.The exhibition and buyer-seller meet is expected to draw around 1,000 domestic and international buyers, creating opportunities for Indian exporters to deepen their presence in Russia and other CIS markets.“The fair will serve as a strategic gateway for Indian exporters to expand in Russia and CIS markets, while also strengthening collaboration between Indian and Russian businesses,” the ministry said.