Delhi, 24 June (H.S.): Export Import Bank of India (EXIM) hosted the Trade Conclave 2025 on June 24 aimed at promoting export-led growth for Viksit Bharat. Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Minister of Finance, emphasized the importance of EXIM Bank’s Trade Assistance Programme (TAP), which supports Indian exporters in accessing high-risk markets by addressing financing gaps. Since its launch in 2022, TAP has partnered with over 100 overseas banks and facilitated more than 1,100 export transactions across 51 countries.
The Finance Minister detailed government initiatives to strengthen exporters, including significant investments in transport and logistics that enhance supply chain efficiency and competitiveness. Support for MSMEs is also a priority, with initiatives like the revision of MSME definitions, Udyam registration, revamping Credit Guarantee Schemes, and the Ubharte Sitaare Programme by EXIM Bank.
Sitharaman mentioned the importance of trade finance access through platforms such as ITFS and EXIM Finserve, the subsidiary in GIFT City offering export factoring. She also highlighted the Districts as Export Hubs initiative, which encourages cluster development for trade outside SEZs. Ongoing FTA negotiations, particularly with the EU and USA, were noted as critical for boosting exports, alongside the Production-linked incentive scheme, which contributed to exports exceeding ₹5.3 lakh crore.
Pankaj Chaudhary, Minister of State for Finance, discussed enhancing credit flow for Indian enterprises, especially MSMEs.
M. Nagaraju, Secretary of the Department of Financial Services, stated that the financial system is poised to support sustained economic growth in Viksit Bharat.
Key achievements under TAP were presented, and virtually inaugurated were EXIM Bank’s new offices in Lucknow, Indore, and São Paulo, Brazil. These offices aim to assist current and future exporters in accessing new markets. Harsha Bangari, Managing Director of EXIM Bank, noted that the Bank’s support helps Indian companies enhance export capabilities and undertake complex projects. During the event, research publications on critical sectors were released, providing insights and strategies for improving export competitiveness. Over 200 participants from various sectors attended the conclave.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
