New Delhi, Dec 31 (NationPress) In a bid to enhance global market access for Indian exporters, the government introduced the Market Access Support (MAS) initiative on Wednesday as part of the Export Promotion Mission (EPM), a significant program sanctioned by the Union Cabinet last November.

The MAS initiative is implemented under the NIRYAT DISHA sub-scheme of EPM, focusing on bolstering international market access for Indian exporters, especially MSMEs, first-time exporters, and businesses from priority sectors, as stated by the Commerce Ministry.

This intervention will provide organized financial and institutional support for initiatives like Buyer-Seller Meets (BSMs), engagement in international trade fairs and exhibitions, Mega Reverse Buyer-Seller Meets (RBSMs) held in India, and trade delegations to prioritized and emerging export markets.

The ministry also mentioned that a strategic three-to-five-year calendar of key market access events will be prepared and approved ahead of time, allowing exporters and organizing bodies to plan their participation well in advance and maintain ongoing market development efforts.

“A minimum participation of 35 percent MSMEs has been mandated for the supported events, with a strong emphasis on new geographies and smaller markets to promote export diversification. The size of delegations has been set at a minimum of 50 participants, with adjustments allowed based on market conditions and strategic importance,” an official statement elaborated.

Significantly, the financial support limits for events and cost-sharing ratios have been adjusted, with priority assistance being offered to critical sectors and markets.

Small exporters, with an export turnover of up to Rs 75 lakh from the previous year, will receive partial airfare assistance to promote participation among new and smaller exporters.

The entire process for event listing, proposal submission, approvals, participant onboarding, fund distribution, and monitoring will be facilitated through https://trade.gov.in, ensuring transparency and accessibility for all stakeholders.

Mandatory online feedback systems will be established for exporters taking part in each supported event, assessing key factors such as buyer quality, business leads generated, and market relevance.

Based on feedback and insights gained during implementation, the MAS guidelines will be continuously improved and institutionalized, the ministry stated.

The MAS initiative aims to enhance buyer connections and boost India's visibility in global markets through structured and outcome-focused market access strategies.