Tamil Nadu has set an ambitious target of increasing its merchandise exports from the current $59 billion to $72 billion in 2026-27, with district-wise export targets drawn up for all 38 districts, as the state seeks to leverage India’s Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to expand its presence in global markets.
Industries Minister S Keerthana said the state was focused on ensuring that businesses, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), farmers and entrepreneurs fully utilise the opportunities emerging from India’s trade agreements.
“India’s FTAs are opening doors to global markets. Our responsibility is to ensure Tamil Nadu’s businesses, MSMEs, farmers and entrepreneurs make the most of these opportunities,” she said.
The minister was speaking at a one-day workshop organised in Chennai on Friday by the state Industries Department in collaboration with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). More than 400 exporters, industry associations, MSMEs and government officials participated in the programme.
According to Guidance Tamil Nadu, the state’s export roadmap includes plans to position Kancheepuram as India’s leading export district, establish targets for services exports, upgrade export testing facilities, support first-time exporters and set up an FTA facilitation cell.
The initiatives are part of Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay’s ambition to develop Tamil Nadu into a $1.5 trillion economy by 2036, an official statement said.
Tamil Nadu has a diversified export base covering automobiles and components, electronics, textiles, garments, leather, engineering goods and food processing.
At the workshop, Keerthana also released a guidebook featuring 100 frequently asked questions on exports and their answers. The publication is aimed at helping first-time exporters, women entrepreneurs, MSMEs and self-help groups (SHGs) understand export procedures and identify opportunities in international markets.
Meanwhile, the minister is scheduled to visit Germany on Sunday as part of the state’s efforts to attract fresh investments. During the visit, Tamil Nadu will showcase its manufacturing ecosystem, industrial infrastructure, skilled workforce and established supplier networks to German companies exploring expansion opportunities in India.
The state will also explore potential partnerships in advanced manufacturing, engineering, electronics and emerging technologies, according to an Industries Department release.