Аннотация: This article examines the textile and creative economy sectors in India and Thailand, analyzing their policy frameworks, growth trajectories, and challenges within the broader South Asian context. India, a global leader in textile production and export (5% of global trade), relies heavily on traditional handloom, handicrafts, and MSMEs, employing significant rural populations. Its policy features product reservation for MSMEs, though with export-oriented exceptions for large firms. Thailand, conversely, has strategically integrated the creative economy into national development plans since the early 2000s, aiming to become a regional hub and significantly increase its GDP share (targeting 20%). Institutions like TCDC (Thailand Creative & Design Center) and the «Thailand 4.0» vision focusing on new economies, including cultural and creative industries, exemplify this. While both countries leverage rich cultural heritage, India's creative goods exports show impressive growth (8th globally in 2015), though lagging behind China. South Asia overall exhibits vast potential in creative exports and intra-regional trade due to shared socio-cultural norms yet faces challenges like insufficient government support for skills development and finance, and gender disparities limiting women's advancement beyond artisan roles. The analysis highlights the contrasting policy approaches (India's protectionist/MSME focus vs. Thailand's proactive creative economy integration) and underscores the need for enhanced support, skill development, and regional cooperation to unlock the full potential of these vital sectors for sustainable development and employment.