Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurated the 45th India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on November 13. On this occasion, he urged Indian businesses, exporters, manufacturers and entrepreneurs to leverage Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to expand their reach in international markets.
Addressing the gathering, Goyal said India recorded a record $90 billion in exports in October 2026, comprising around $50 billion in merchandise and $40 billion in services. Cumulative exports during the first seven months up to October stood at approximately $570 billion. He expressed confidence that India would achieve its $1 trillion export target, and noted that, despite global uncertainties, international trade is expected to grow by 15–16 percent this year.
This fair features over 3,500 exhibitors, with participants from 30 states and union territories, as well as 11 countries. One of its key attractions is the ‘One District, One Product’ (ODOP) pavilion, which showcases regional products, handicrafts and handloom items. The fair also features a ‘Hall of Inspiration’ showcasing 600 startups and their innovations.
Emphasizing quality and sustainability, the Minister called for adopting a Zero Defect, Zero Effect approach, promoting a circular economy, and encouraging biodegradable products, with the aim of strengthening India’s competitiveness in global markets.
Goyal announced that the government would soon undertake another phase of expansion at Bharat Mandapam, nearly doubling its exhibition capacity. He also said the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) would organise international trade fairs to help Indian businesses and startups access overseas markets, particularly countries with which India has signed Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
Highlighting India’s economic ambitions, Goyal said the country aimed to transform its approximately $4 trillion economy into a $30 trillion economy by 2047 under the Viksit Bharat vision. Goyal highlighted strong consumer demand during the festive season and record GST collections in October as indicators of India’s economic growth. He also cited emerging export opportunities, including kiwi from Arunachal Pradesh and Sindhuri pomegranates from Kullu being exported to Dubai.
The Minister also mentioned the ‘Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum’ proposed for the North Block and South Block complex and emphasized the importance of preserving India’s cultural heritage alongside its economic development. He said that the IITF has evolved into a national platform that showcases India’s economic strength, regional diversity and export potential.
(PIB)
