India Plans 500 Delegations to Boost FTA Use and Exports

India is preparing to send nearly 500 business delegations across global markets to improve FTA utilisation and strengthen export growth, as the government looks to help Indian companies make better use of Free Trade Agreements.

The initiative, announced by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, is aimed at increasing awareness among exporters, industry bodies, and MSMEs about the benefits available under India’s trade agreements. The government believes stronger FTA utilisation can improve export competitiveness, open new markets, and support India’s long-term trade ambitions.

Under the outreach programme, the commerce ministry plans to organise business interactions, country-focused sessions, and industry workshops in collaboration with export promotion councils and trade associations. Around 1,000 professionals are expected to be trained to guide businesses on trade opportunities, while nearly 1,600 industry bodies and chambers of commerce will also be involved in the initiative.

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Speaking about the programme, Goyal said the government wants businesses across sectors to fully benefit from India’s growing network of trade agreements. He stressed the importance of spreading awareness at the grassroots level so that exporters can better understand tariff benefits, compliance requirements, customs rules, and market access opportunities under FTAs.

The move comes as India continues to strengthen global trade ties with key economies, including ongoing negotiations with the United Kingdom and the European Union. Policymakers believe that improving FTA awareness can help Indian exporters expand beyond traditional markets and become more competitive globally.

Officials said many companies, particularly small and medium enterprises, still face challenges in understanding how to effectively use trade agreements. Through this outreach programme, the government hopes to bridge that gap by providing practical guidance and direct engagement with industry stakeholders.

Sectors such as pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, electronics, textiles, food processing, and chemicals are expected to benefit significantly from improved utilisation of FTAs. Industry experts believe the initiative could encourage more businesses to explore overseas markets and participate in global supply chains.

The government has increasingly focused on trade-led growth as India aims to position itself as a major global manufacturing hub and export powerhouse. By expanding awareness and improving industry participation, the new delegation programme is expected to help Indian businesses take greater advantage of international trade opportunities and deliver stronger export growth in the coming years.