Indian e-commerce exports could add USD 10 billion in 2–3 years, DGFT official says

Indian e-commerce exports could rise by another USD 10 billion over the next two to three years, a senior Directorate General of Foreign Trade official said on Monday. Rajesh Kumar Mishra, an additional director at DGFT, said India can scale up fast. Mishra compared India’s scope with China’s yearly e-commerce exports of USD 300 billion.

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"We should add to USD 10 billion dollars or more exports by e-commerce, so the potential is very huge because we are a large country with large number of MSMEs having capacity to manufacture quality products,\" Mishra told. Mishra said India needs a few changes in approach. Mishra said India can use existing strengths better.

Indian e-commerce exports and support for MSMEs

Mishra said e-commerce exports can help manufacturers and small exporters reach buyers abroad. Mishra said the segment fits global consumer demand. Mishra pointed to India’s large MSME base as a key advantage. Mishra said MSMEs can supply quality goods at scale. Mishra said this can widen India’s overseas customer reach.

\"The e-commerce caters to requirements of a global consumer base, so the platforms which are there, online platforms and leveraging the supplies, supply chains like India Post, our own postal department government of India entity, which provides very competitive rates for supply of goods abroad, so that can be leveraged to create a situation where our small consignments can be sent at a competitive rate to a foreign country,\" he added.

Indian e-commerce exports linked to FTAs and preparation

On free trade agreements, Mishra said MSMEs must get ready to use new openings. Mishra said such deals need planning by exporters and makers. Mishra described preparation as important for all stakeholders. Mishra said firms should understand rules, standards, and market needs. Mishra said without readiness, benefits may remain limited.

Indian e-commerce exports and India’s manufacturing goals

Mishra also underlined MSMEs in India’s long-term manufacturing plans. Mishra said government policy aims for manufacturing to reach 25 per cent of GDP. Mishra said MSMEs can support that shift due to their large numbers. Mishra said better quality and bigger ambitions matter. Mishra said growth in firm size can lift overall impact.

Indian e-commerce exports and the USD 1 trillion merchandise exports target

On India’s merchandise export goal, Mishra said trade growth with FTA partners can help. Mishra said the target is USD 1 trillion in merchandise exports over five years. Mishra added that FTAs alone will not deliver this outcome. Mishra said export gains will depend on several drivers working together.

\"It is a bouquet of everything, all factors e-commerce will add, our quality improvements will add, the kind of credit that is being provided through the export promotion mission because it is not in a vacuum, it is a combination of all the factors that we are encountering right now,\" he noted. Mishra linked e-commerce, quality upgrades, and credit support. Mishra said these elements combine to support export growth.

With inputs from PTI