Kashmir’s handicrafts industry faces uncertain future amid US tariffs

The papier-mache exporter fears financial losses with goods already produced and partially paid for.

“We hope Indian trade bodies and the government will talk to US authorities to relax the tariffs on handicraft items. If that’s not possible, we would like the government to support us with subsidies to help cover our losses,” said Ali.

On a more positive note, the White House has paused the tariffs for 90 days for most countries except China, though a “baseline” 10 per cent duty rate remains.

This has offered some temporary relief for local tradespeople, allowing them to adjust and explore new intra-regional trade routes.

Wajahat Qazi, founder and director of local clothing manufacturer Zaevyul, said he sees a silver lining and an opportunity.

“It might lead to intra-regional trade that is more in volume and more abundant, so it is not necessarily all gloom and doom,” said Qazi.