What did you think of the Budget?
I am happy the Fringe Benefit Tax has been scrapped, and that the allocation for infrastructure has been increased. Now that infrastructure will improve, organising business trips for buyers from abroad will become easier.
What were your expectations?
I wear two hats, one as my export industry association for which I am extremely happy. The tax holiday for the export sector is welcome. As the head of fashion’s apex body, I am disappointed as we were not even in the reckoning.
What expectations have not been met?
When it comes to fashion, luxury and retail, it is clear we need to meet and present our issues with a common voice.
Any particular concern.
Retail, fashion and luxury needs to come together as one industry so that we are also heard.
What does the Budget mean to you personally?
I am happy I can reward my colleagues without getting ensnared in FBT. I am happy that senior citizens have been given a tax break. But the government needs to take more responsibility about subsidising the common man’s medical costs.
Sunil Sethi, President, Fashion Design Council of India
