New Delhi, June 30 -- India's trade with its top ASEAN partners like Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia has grown a lot, even though India has taken a protectionist approach after signing the ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement (AITIGA). But Indian exporters, especially in the textile sector, are still facing major challenges.

A report by India-Exim Bank noted that a large number of Indian textile products have been put on "exclusion" or "sensitive" lists by ASEAN countries.

This means they don't get duty-free access, making it harder for Indian textiles to compete in those markets. Countries like the Philippines and Vietnam also offer zero-duty access under AITIGA, but Indian businesses are not using this opportunity fully.

The study sugg...