FTAs provide Indian MSMEs opportunities to access major developed markets: Jitin Prasada

10 Mar 2026 Evaluate

Marking importance of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) in expanding opportunities for India’s MSMEs, Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry and Electronics and Information Technology, Jitin Prasada has said that recent FTAs with regions including the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and other major markets give Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) access to major developed markets. This creates significant opportunities for Indian manufacturers to join global supply chains and meet international demand.

He noted that MSMEs, which form the backbone of the Indian economy, must focus on quality-led growth instead of low-cost mass production. Since around 65% of developed markets are linked through India’s FTAs, they require high-quality products. He also highlighted that digitally connected Indian consumers, even in rural areas, are increasingly demanding better-quality goods, and zero-duty access will not allow sub-standard imports.

Highlighting the importance of technology adoption, he said that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as a critical tool across industries including healthcare, transportation, manufacturing and services. He encouraged MSMEs to adopt AI-driven technologies to improve productivity, efficiency and decision-making, while reducing the burden of routine operational tasks.

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