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India’s New Export Strategy: 50 Focus Markets to Drive Growth Amid US Slowdown
India is gearing up to shield its exports from global headwinds by widening its trade net. With the United States—India’s top export destination—facing tariff pressures, New Delhi has expanded its list of focus markets from 20 to 50 countries, covering nearly 90% of total exports. The government aims to intensify its promotion efforts, boost diversification, and launch the upcoming Export Promotion Mission (2025–2031).
Why the Shift?
The move comes against the backdrop of an impending slump in shipments to the US, where a new 25% tariff kicked in on August 2. Exporters had rushed shipments in July, driving up exports to the US by 20% that month, but trade is expected to cool going forward.
To safeguard momentum, India is doubling down on diversification—both in terms of markets and products.
Expanding Beyond Traditional Markets
Until now, India’s export promotion focus was on 20 key countries that together accounted for 60% of exports. With the addition of 30 new destinations such as Kenya, Spain, South Africa, Mexico, Tanzania, Egypt, Thailand, Belgium, Israel, Nigeria, and the Philippines, the scope has widened significantly.
These 50 focus markets now cover 90% of exports, giving India a broader base to push goods across geographies. According to a senior official, the chosen countries already account for 30% of exports and offer “significant room to expand the quantity and range of products.”
The strategy is already showing results. For instance, the Agricultural and Processed Food Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated exports of 15 new products to 28 new markets in just April–July this year.
Policy Push: FTAs, Digital Trade & Export Promotion Mission
Alongside market diversification, the government is pushing hard on trade policy and facilitation:
Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): Negotiations are being accelerated, especially with the UK and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). The EFTA FTA (Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein) will be effective from October 1, 2025.
Digital Trade Facilitation: Efforts are underway to streamline export processes through digital platforms, improving ease of doing business.
Export Promotion Mission (2025–2031): Soon to be launched, this six-year program will include two sub-schemes:
Export finance support – covering credit, factoring, insurance, and collateral solutions.
Market development & compliance support – covering quality standards, branding, warehousing, logistics, and capacity building.
Outlook
While exports to the top 26 of these focus markets grew to $91.5 billion in April–July 2025, 14 others saw declines. That divergence underlines the urgency of the government’s strategy.
With a world economy facing uncertainty, India’s pivot to 50 key markets could be the foundation for a more resilient and diversified export base. By blending market outreach, policy reforms, FTAs, and a structured export promotion mission, India is betting big on turning global headwinds into new opportunities.
