New Delhi, Mar 24 (IANS): Indian exporters have appealed to their buyers across the globe not to cancel orders due to lockdowns enforced by governments the world over to check Covid-19 pandemic.

There is panic among the exporting community that temporary suspension of business due to coronavirus spread may result in cancellation of orders by some of the buyers leading to serious financial implicatios for Indian export units and resultant shutdowns.

Considering the seriousness of the emerging issue, Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) in a letter has appealed to most of the EU and US stores, global brands, buying houses for their continued support in this critical time by not cancelling orders as it would severely impact the livelihood of thousands of workers.

AEPC Chairman A Sakthivel said that Indian exporters understand that the present situation and are willing to cooperate in any manner like holding back shipping till stores reopened and even extend payment terms.

"In such difficult times, we have advised our members to cooperate with buyers by showing more flexibility towards deliveries etc. As a country and as a Council we are grateful to buyers (brand) like you who have always supported India. Your regular orders provide employment to millions of workers from every strata of society, from farmers to rural workers to women, who are directly or indirectly dependent on this industry and earning wages between $120 and $200," the AEPC chairman said.

AEPC extended support to Indian exporters by taking up their case with the buyers, if such a need arises.

"We hope and pray that the situation becomes normal in the next few weeks. As an important partner in sharing the responsibility that this sector has to the people engaged in the supply chain, we look forward to your kind understanding and pray that you will consider our request," AEPC said.