Cargo ship for exports. Representative image
Credit: Reuters Photo
New Delhi: The Union Government on Wednesday announced a Rs 4,531-crore scheme, under which exporters will be provided financial support for participation in international trade fairs and exhibitions.
Under the scheme, the government will provide structured financial and institutional support for activities, including Buyer-Seller Meets (BSMs), participation in international trade fairs and exhibitions, Director General of Foreign Trade Ajay Bhadoo told reporters.
The intervention called Market Access Support (MAS) aims to improve buyer connect and enhance India’s presence in global markets through outcome-oriented market access initiatives. This is among the first of 11 schemes proposed under the Rs 25,060-crore Export Promotion Mission, which was approved by the Union Cabinet on November 12, 2025.
Bhadoo said the initiative would help in diversification of India’s exports in new markets and product segments. “It is structured in a way to encourage participation of first-time exporters and MSMEs,” he said.
“For every trade delegation, the organiser must ensure at least 35% of the participating companies are MSMEs,” Bhadoo added.
The initiative comes at a time when Indian exporters are facing huge challenges due to the imposition of a steep 50% tariff by the US, the biggest buyer of Indian goods.
“At a time when engineering exporters are facing challenges in the traditional markets, the new scheme would help in accessing new regions,” EEPC India Chairman Pankaj Chadha said.
The rollout of the scheme would provide necessary financial support to the exporting community in showcasing their products in different markets. This will certainly help in pushing Brand India globally, Chadha said.
Welcoming the move, FIEO President SC Ralhan said the government has addressed a long-standing need of exporters, particularly MSMEs, who often face constraints in accessing overseas markets.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, a forward-looking three-to-five-year calendar of major market access events will be prepared and approved in advance, enabling exporters and organising agencies to plan participation well ahead of time and ensuring continuity of market development efforts.
A minimum participation of 35% MSMEs has been mandated for supported events, with special prioritisation being accorded to new geographies and smaller markets to encourage export diversification. Delegation size has been benchmarked at a minimum of 50 participants, with flexibility provided based on market conditions and strategic relevance.