The Centre for Trade and Investment Law (CTIL) at the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), on Thursday launched a guidebook aimed at helping Indian micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) expand their presence in global markets.
Titled ‘Going Global: A Practical Guide for Indian MSMEs’, the publication has been designed as a one-stop resource to help businesses identify export opportunities, understand market access requirements, leverage trade intelligence tools, comply with international standards and sustainability norms, and strengthen export readiness.
The guidebook addresses key challenges faced by MSMEs, including limited access to market information, lack of knowledge about overseas buyers, compliance with international standards and certifications, and maintaining price competitiveness. It also provides practical guidance on market analysis, identifying buyers and using freely available tools to reduce the cost of market research.
Following the launch, a panel discussion featuring trade experts and industry representatives explored opportunities for Indian MSMEs under India’s Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), with a focus on preferential Rules of Origin, identifying promising export destinations, meeting international standards, and improving competitiveness through diversification and value addition.
The event also included a presentation on the Trade Remedies Advisory Cell (TRAC), which highlighted its role in creating awareness about trade remedy laws and supporting domestic industries in addressing unfair trade practices and import surges.
The programme brought together policymakers, industry representatives, trade experts and MSME stakeholders to discuss practical strategies for enhancing the global competitiveness of Indian MSMEs.
Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce, Amitabh Kumar delivered the special address, while the inaugural session also featured remarks by CTIL Head James J. Nedumpara, CII Principal Advisor (International Trade Policy) Sumanta Chaudhuri, and FISME Secretary General Anil Bhardwaj.
The event concluded with an interactive session on export preparedness, standards compliance and market access, with participants emphasising the need for stronger institutional support, joint ventures, participation in trade exhibitions and effective use of the guidebook to help MSMEs integrate into global value chains.
