Trade Connect e-Platform Supports MSMEs in Global Trade

The Trade Connect e-Platform is a single window initiative that is fast, accessible and transformational as it will enable exporters to add newer markets. This was stated by Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal during the launch of the Trade Connect e-Platform today in New Delhi.

Shri Goyal said that our focus should be to identify the opportunities in the world market. He said that with the launch of this platform India will be able to increase its market share in the world, adding that international opportunities will be showcased on the platform. Small FPOs, businesses and entrepreneurs will also be able to access this platform, learn of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) benefits that are available to expand their trade, the Union Minister noted.

Shri Goyal expressed confidence that before the next trade board meeting, e-Platform 2.0 will be ready with enhanced features and stressed the need for working on the feedbacks received for the platform from all the users and stakeholders. The Minister said that the newer version will be launched in Hindi and several other official languages to take its benefit to every region. He added that the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s government has consistently worked towards promoting regional languages.  

Praising DGFT for enabling the launch of the platform, Shri Goyal said that the portal is futuristic in its thinking and adds to the accessibility of various information and data related to trade. He added that the platform is a better and smarter way for supporting exporters.

The Union Minister during his address reiterated his $1 trillion merchandise and $1 trillion services export target for 2030 and hoped that with the help of this platform this target would be achieved. He added that the platform will help in creating partnerships and synergies as it can be connected with Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal for the suppliers to get access to wider markets and be more competitive. 

The Trade Connect e-Platform (https://trade.gov.in), is a new digital initiative aimed at transforming the landscape of international trade for Indian exporters, especially MSMEs (Medium, Small and Medium Enterprises). The platform, developed in collaboration with key partners including the Ministry of MSME, EXIM Bank, Department of Financial Services (DFS), and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), is set to address information asymmetry by offering exporters comprehensive support and resources.

The Trade Connect e-Platform serves as a one-stop solution, providing exporters with near real-time access to critical trade-related information, while seamlessly connecting them to key government entities such as the Indian Missions abroad, Department of Commerce, Export Promotion Councils, and other trade experts. Whether a seasoned exporter or a new entrant, the platform is designed to assist businesses at every stage of their export journey. This e-Platform shall connect more than 6 Lakh IEC holders, over 180 Indian Mission officials, over 600 Export Promotion Council Officials, besides the officials from DGFT, DoC, banks etc.

The platform offers a range of features aimed at simplifying the complexities of international trade, including - Product and Country guides for comprehensive market insights, Trade Agreements and Tariff explorer to unlock the benefits of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), Global E-Commerce Guide for thriving in online markets, EXIM Paathshala to educate exporters on mastering global trade, source From India to showcase Indian products globally, Ask an Expert for real-time advice from trade professionals.

By leveraging this platform, our exporters will be able to access international markets more efficiently, utilise trade agreements, and grow their presence on the global stage. The economic outcome will likely include higher export volumes, diversification of markets, and increased global competitiveness for Indian businesses, leading to overall economic growth and enhanced trade opportunities.

This initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of promoting a Digital India, fostering greater transparency, and empowering businesses by providing them with seamless access to crucial trade information. With the Trade Connect e-Platform, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry seeks to reduce the costs, lead times, and complexities associated with global trade, ultimately ensuring that Indian businesses can thrive in the international marketplace.