The government expects the textile exports to increase to $25-26 billion within three years of the Multi Fibre Agreement coming to an end on January 1, 2005.    

"In 2003-04 India exported textiles worth $14 billion and it is expected to increase to $25-26 billion within three years of quota system coming to an end provided no non-tariff barriers are put up by developed countries," Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Textiles Atul Chaturvedi told newsmen in New Delhi on Wednesday.

After inaugurating the 33rd India International Garment Fair organised by Apparel Export Promotion Council with four garment associations, he said in some areas of garments and made-ups, the potential for growth was as high as 30 per cent to 90 per cent.

AEPC chairman Shaktivel said garment exports from India, which stood at $5.2 billion in 2003-04, would increase by 15-20 per cent in the very first year of phasing out of quotas.

The fair, last such before the quota system in world textile and clothing trade comes to an end, is expecting a massive increase in business to $50 million from $22 million in the previous fair.

As many as 650 buyers from 71 countries have registered to visit the fair in which 297 exporters are participating, Shaktivel said.