The Centre for Trade and Investment Law (CTIL) at the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), launched a guidebook titled 'Going Global: A Practical Guide for Indian MSMEs' in New Delhi on July 16, 2026. The guidebook serves as a one-stop practical resource designed to help Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) identify export opportunities, understand market access requirements, leverage freely available trade intelligence tools, comply with international standards and sustainability requirements, and build export readiness.
Specifically, the guidebook addresses common challenges faced by MSMEs including limited access to market information, inadequate knowledge of overseas buyers, difficulties in complying with international standards and certifications, and maintaining price competitiveness. It provides a practical roadmap by simplifying market analysis, explaining standards and certification requirements, offering guidance on identifying buyers, and highlighting reliable, freely available tools that can reduce the cost of market research.
Following the launch, a panel discussion moderated by Mr. Sumanta Chaudhuri featured Mr. Ridhish Rajvanshi (Senior Research Fellow, CTIL), Dr. Animesh Saxena (Managing Director, Neetee Apparels and Past President, FISME), and Mr. Nalin Kohli (Chairman, Araina Group). The discussion examined opportunities for Indian MSMEs to expand into international markets through the effective use of preferential Rules of Origin and cooperation mechanisms under India's Free Trade Agreements. The panellists also discussed strategies for identifying promising export destinations, understanding international standards and certification requirements, positioning products to meet global demand, and enhancing competitiveness through diversification and value addition.
The event also featured a presentation by Ms. Tanvi Praveen (Consultant, CTIL) on the Trade Remedies Advisory Cell (TRAC), highlighting its role in supporting domestic industry by creating awareness about trade remedy laws and providing guidance on issues relating to unfair trade practices and import surges.
The inaugural session included welcome remarks by Dr. James J. Nedumpara (Head, Centre for Trade & Investment Law), context-setting remarks by Mr. Sumanta Chaudhuri (Principal Advisor, International Trade Policy Division, CII), remarks by Shri Anil Bhardwaj (Secretary General, Federation of Indian Micro and Small & Medium Enterprises - FISME), and a Special Address by Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce, Shri Amitabh Kumar. The program concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session and concluding remarks that emphasized the importance of building trust and partnerships among MSMEs through joint ventures, participation in trade exhibitions, stronger institutional support, and effective utilization of the tools provided in the guidebook to facilitate their integration into global value chains.