Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal urged exporters and industry bodies to use Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to expand India’s presence in world markets, maximise job creation and boost exports of goods and services. He addressed a meeting of 35 Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) and leading industry associations representing major export sectors. Industry representatives conveyed appreciation for government trade promotion initiatives and discussed steps to scale exports.

Goyal said the government had concluded FTAs with developed partners to enable farmers, workers, professionals, artisans and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to access markets on preferential terms. The agreements were said to open global opportunities for traditional medicine and yoga while safeguarding agriculture and dairy interests. The minister urged industry to intensify efforts to enter new markets, upgrade quality and become more competitive to exploit the trade advantages.

Industry expressed gratitude to the prime minister and the minister for leadership that enabled recent deals with the United Kingdom, the European Union and the United States of America. Particular appreciation was noted for the removal of the additional 25 per cent tariff on Indian imports to the United States through the United States Executive Order dated six February 2026, which is expected to restore competitive market access and provide renewed stability. Associations said the United States is among India’s largest export destinations and that the tariff rollback is significant for exporters.

Representatives from labour-intensive sectors such as gems and jewellery, textiles and footwear said the rollback has revived business confidence and safeguarded employment. The ministry presented the trade engagement, outlining market access opportunities, compliance frameworks and pathways for export expansion, and industry welcomed the clarity provided. Discussions reviewed progress under the Export Promotion Mission (EPM) and interventions already rolled out, including interest subvention support for export credit loans, collateral guarantee for export credit to MSMEs and targeted market access support, with further measures to be introduced in a phased manner. The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to accelerate export growth, deepen global integration and position India as a trusted supply partner.