Govt Launches Market Access Support Scheme to Boost Indian Exports

To strengthen India’s export ecosystem and help domestic firms compete globally, the government has launched a INR 4,531 crore Market Access Support (MAS) scheme for the period FY 2026–31. The scheme focuses on improving global visibility, market access, and competitiveness of Indian exporters, with a strong emphasis on MSMEs first-time exporters, and priority sectors such as agriculture, handloom, leather, and toys.

Why in the News?

The government has launched a ₹4,531 crore Market Access Support (MAS) scheme for six years (FY26-31) to help Indian exporters expand into global markets. The scheme prioritizes MSMEs and first-time exporters and supports trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and new export destinations.

About the Market Access Support (MAS) Scheme

The Market Access Support scheme is part of India’s shift from direct export subsidies to market-linked support mechanisms.

It comes under the INR 25,060 crore Export Promotion Mission approved by the Union Cabinet in November 2025. The focus is on long-term export competitiveness rather than short-term tariff relief.

Key Features of the MAS Scheme

• Total outlay of ₹4,531 crore for FY26-31
• Focus on improving global reach, visibility, and competitiveness
• Supports participation in international trade fairs and exhibitions
• Promotes buyer-seller meets, including mega reverse buyer-seller meets in India
• Encourages trade delegations to priority and emerging markets
• Structured, outcome-oriented approach with advance planning

Who Will Benefit from the Scheme?

The scheme mainly targets,

• MSMEs and first-time exporters
• Exporters from priority sectors such as agriculture, leather, handloom, toys, and traditional industries
• Small exporters entering new geographies and non-traditional markets
• At least 35% MSME participation is mandatory in supported events to ensure wider outreach.

MSME Focus and Financial Support

• Strong MSME bias to diversify both exporters and export markets
• Partial airfare support for small exporters with export turnover up to ₹75 lakh
• Preferential financial support for priority sectors and new markets
• Rationalized cost-sharing ratios and event-level funding ceilings
• This design ensures small and new exporters can participate without heavy financial burden.

Funding and Implementation Details

• ₹500 crore allocated in the current financial year
• Pending arrears of ₹330 crore to be cleared initially
• A rolling 3 to 5 year calendar of major market access events will be prepared in advance
• Helps exporters plan participation and ensures continuity in market development

Not Linked to US Tariffs

Officials clarified that the MAS scheme is not a reaction to US tariffs on Indian goods. Instead, it aims to address structural and long-term challenges faced by exporters and improve export resilience over time.

Key Data At Glance

Question

Q1. The Market Access Support (MAS) scheme has been launched for which period?

A. FY24–29
B. FY25–30
C. FY26–31
D. FY27–32