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In a powerful reaffirmation of India’s ambition to become a global export powerhouse, the Export-Import Bank of India (Exim Bank) hosted the Trade Conclave 2025 on 24th June 2025, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's journey towards building Viksit Bharat – a developed India.

Gracing the event with her presence, Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman delivered a compelling address that laid out a clear vision and policy roadmap to foster export-led growth across sectors.

???? Key Highlights from the Finance Minister’s Address:

???? Trade Assistance Programme (TAP): A Game-Changer

Smt. Sitharaman emphasized Exim Bank’s Trade Assistance Programme (TAP), launched in 2022, calling it India’s first-of-its-kind trade facilitation initiative. TAP has already:

• Partnered with 100+ overseas banks

• Facilitated 1,100+ export transactions

• Reached 51 countries
  This program is bridging crucial financing gaps and enabling Indian exporters to tap into high-risk international markets. 

• ???? Strengthening Infrastructure for Global Trade

  The Minister highlighted significant government investments in transport and logistics, aimed at enhancing supply chain efficiency and global competitiveness – a key enabler for smoother and faster exports.

  ???? Empowering MSMEs: Backbone of Indian Exports

  MSMEs received special attention, with ongoing reforms and programs such as:

• Revised MSME definition

• Udyam Registration

• Revamped Credit Guarantee Scheme

• TReDS (Trade Receivables Discounting System)

• Ubharte Sitaare Programme by Exim Bank

• These initiatives are fostering financial inclusion and access to global markets for smaller businesses.

  ???? Trade Finance & Factoring Made Easier

  The Finance Minister also spotlighted the International Trade Finance Services (ITFS) and Exim Bank’s subsidiary in GIFT City – Exim Finserve, which now provides export factoring services, offering more agile trade finance solutions to exporters.

  ???? From Local to Global: Districts as Export Hubs

  In a push to decentralize export power, the Districts as Export Hubs initiative is encouraging local businesses to access global trade avenues directly from their home districts, beyond traditional SEZs.

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  ????️ FTAs and Strategic Trade Agreements in Focus

  India is actively negotiating Free Trade Agreements with major economies, including the European Union and the USA, which are expected to unlock enormous export potential in the coming years.

  The Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme has already catalyzed over ₹5.3 lakh crore worth of exports, Smt. Sitharaman noted, calling it a cornerstone of India’s manufacturing and export policy.

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  ???? Virtual Inauguration of New Exim Bank Offices

  In a symbolic boost to the export ecosystem, the Union Minister virtually inaugurated three new Exim Bank offices in:

• Lucknow

• Indore

• São Paulo, Brazil

• These offices will be instrumental in offering on-ground support to existing and aspiring exporters while facilitating easier access to global markets.

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  ????️ Insights from Industry Leaders

  Ms. Harsha Bangari, Managing Director of Exim Bank, shared that the Bank’s support has helped Indian businesses scale operations, move up the value chain, and undertake complex global projects.

  In a show of support for innovation, Smt. Sitharaman also handed over sanction letters to select SMEs under the Ubharte Sitaare Programme and announced a technical assistance agreement with IIT Kanpur to back high-potential startups.

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  ???? New Research Reports Released

  Shri Pankaj Chaudhary, Minister of State for Finance, released three insightful reports by Exim Bank:

• India’s Need to Secure Critical Minerals for Energy Transition

• India’s Defence Equipment Industry: Exploring New Frontiers

• Textile & Allied Products Trade under ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement: Value Chain Analysis

• The conclave witnessed over 200 participants, including industry leaders, banking professionals, exporters, export promotion councils, and academic experts — both physically and virtually.

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  ???????? Towards Viksit Bharat – The Road Ahead

  India’s export ambitions are no longer just policy statements. They are backed by ground-level programs, infrastructure investments, and digital platforms. With Exim Bank’s initiatives and strong government support, the dream of Viksit Bharat seems not only achievable but fast approaching.

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  ???? Stay tuned to our blog for more updates on India’s trade, economic policy, and global market opportunities.
  Let’s grow together in the journey toward an Atmanirbhar and Viksit India.

  These studies aim to inform policy, industry, and academia with actionable data and strategic recommendations.

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