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New Delhi: Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday launched seven new initiatives under the Export Promotion Mission (EPM) aimed at strengthening India’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and enhancing the country’s global export competitiveness.
The flagship initiative of the Department of Commerce seeks to address key challenges faced by exporters while ensuring inclusive export growth. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal was also present at the launch event.
Focus on Inclusive Growth and Global Competitiveness
Marking World Day of Social Justice, Goyal said true social justice means ensuring development reaches the last person in society. He highlighted the importance of empowering MSMEs, startups and entrepreneurs to access global trade opportunities.
The minister noted that emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, quantum computing, data centres and indigenous large language models are creating new opportunities for India’s youth and driving investment across sectors.
FTAs Expand Market Access to 70% of Global GDP
Goyal stated that India’s expanding network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) has significantly increased market access for Indian exporters. With nine concluded FTAs, India now has access to nearly 70% of global GDP and two-thirds of world trade, covering 38 developed and emerging economies.
He added that India is confidently engaging with developed nations, safeguarding sensitive sectors while ensuring competitive advantages in key industries. Since 2022, the government has accelerated trade negotiations, simplified regulations and improved ease of doing business.
Export Promotion Mission: Key Highlights
The Export Promotion Mission is being implemented under two verticals — ‘Niryat Protsahan’ and ‘Niryat Disha’ — through an integrated digital monitoring framework.
The mission is being executed in collaboration with the Ministry of MSME, Ministry of Finance, EXIM Bank of India, CGTMSE, NCGTC, banking institutions, Indian missions abroad and major industry bodies.
Major Announcements Include:
1. Export Factoring Support for MSMEs
- 2.75% interest subvention
- Up to ₹50 lakh annual support per MSME
- Affordable working capital through export factoring
2. Structured Credit for E-Commerce Exporters
- Direct e-commerce credit up to ₹50 lakh
- Overseas inventory credit up to ₹5 crore
- 2.75% interest subsidy and partial credit guarantee
3. Support for New and High-Risk Markets
Dedicated mechanisms to promote exports in emerging markets and improve financial flow confidence.
4. Reduced Compliance Costs
- Partial assistance for international testing, inspection and certification
- Support for overseas warehousing and fulfillment infrastructure
- Freight relief for exporters from low-export districts
5. Strengthened Logistics and Global Access
Projects like Bharat Mart in Dubai are being developed to provide strategic access to GCC, Africa, Central Asia and European markets.
Double-Digit Export Growth Signals Confidence
Goyal revealed that India recorded double-digit growth in merchandise exports in the first half of February, indicating rising industry confidence and market participation.
With 10 out of 11 planned schemes under the Export Promotion Mission now operational, the government aims to reduce export costs, strengthen trade finance access and connect Indian MSMEs more effectively with global markets.
Industry Bodies Welcome the Move
Leading export promotion councils and industry organizations such as FIEO, EEPC, GJEPC, CII, FICCI, PHDCCI, ASSOCHAM and NASSCOM have welcomed the initiative and pledged support for its effective implementation.
The new measures are expected to enhance export capacity, lower trade barriers and position India as a globally competitive export powerhouse driven by resilient and empowered MSMEs.
