New Delhi, Aug. 27 -- Export-oriented textile and apparel units in Tiruppur, Noida, and Surat have suspended production in response to the United States' recent 50 percent tariff, raising concerns over India's cost competitiveness in one of its largest markets, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) said on Tuesday.

FIEO President S C Ralhan warned that the higher duties are eroding India's position against lower-cost rivals such as Vietnam and Bangladesh, and urged the government to introduce urgent support measures.

He said about 55 percent of India's US-bound shipments, valued at USD 47-48 billion, now face pricing disadvantages of 30-35 percent compared with competing suppliers from China, Vietnam, Cambodia, the Philip...