Budget 2026: Sitharaman's 4-Point Plan to Counter US Tariffs, Boost Exports

• Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced measures in Budget 2026 to mitigate the impact of US tariffs on India's labor-intensive sectors and prevent job losses.
• A 'one-time special concession' for SEZs allows eligible manufacturing units to sell products in the domestic market at concessional duties, aiming to provide relief and prevent closures.
• An integrated program for the textile sector, including the National Fiber Scheme and Textile Expansion and Employment Scheme, focuses on modernization, technology upgradation, and capital support.
• Simplification of duty structures for labor-intensive industries includes increasing duty-free import limits for marine product exports and extending export timelines.
• A 10,000 crore rupees Container Manufacturing Scheme aims to build a competitive domestic ecosystem, reducing import dependence and strengthening export logistics.

Why It Matters: Budget 2026 introduces strategic measures to counter US tariffs, support key industries, and enhance India's global trade resilience.