India to export non-medical, non-surgical masks worth USD 1 bn in next 3 mths: AEPC

Apparel Export Promotion Council on Saturday said it will ensure exports of non-medical and non-surgical masks worth USD 1 billion in next three months, after the government eased restrictions on outbound shipments of these products.

Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) on Saturday issued a notification amending the export policy to allow the export of non-medical and non-surgical masks of all types including cotton, silk, wool and knitted.

Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC)said the decision will further boost the production of masks in the country.

There is a huge opportunity for Indian Apparel manufacturers for export of such masks," AEPC Chairman A Sakthivelsaid, adding that there is a huge demand for the export of these products and the council has already identified the international markets for these non-medical and non-surgical masks.

"The Council assures the government that it will ensure exports of these items to the tune of USD 1 billion within the next three months," Sakthiveladded.