Goyal Holds Talks With Exporters To Boost Exports And Market Access

New Delhi, Jun 25 (KNN) Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Wednesday held discussions with exporters and industry representatives to review strategies aimed at boosting exports, expanding market access and maximising opportunities arising from India's free trade agreements (FTAs).

Focus on Strengthening India's Export Ecosystem 

The meeting, attended by representatives from various Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) and industry associations, focused on strengthening the country's export ecosystem, accelerating market diversification and enhancing India's competitiveness in global trade.

In a social media post, Goyal said the deliberations covered measures to strengthen support for MSMEs, promote innovation and deep-tech capabilities, improve export facilitation and expand India's participation in global value chains, reported PTI.

DGFT Proposes KPI Framework for Export Promotion Councils 

Several EPCs presented updates on sector-wise export performance and progress against key performance indicators (KPIs).

According to industry sources, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has proposed a KPI framework based on four pillars, export performance, market diversification, exporter ecosystem development and policy facilitation.

Under the proposed framework, export promotion councils will be required to provide details on the number of new exporters onboarded, capacity-building programmes conducted and participation in international trade engagements, among other indicators.

Merchandise Exports Continue Strong Growth 

The meeting comes amid a strong rise in India's merchandise exports. Official data showed exports increased 18 per cent year-on-year to a six-month high of USD 45.2 billion in May 2026.

During April-May FY27, exports grew 16.09 per cent to USD 88.91 billion, while imports rose 15.14 per cent to USD 145.35 billion. The country's trade deficit stood at USD 56.44 billion during the two-month period, with the May trade gap widening to USD 28.21 billion.

(KNN Bureau)