Tripura’s Industries and Commerce Department organised a state-level MSME awareness programme in Agartala to help local businesses leverage India’s Free Trade Agreements, understand export procedures, benefit from reduced customs duties and explore international markets for business growth.
The Directorate of Industries and Commerce organised a state-level Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Awareness and Outreach Programme on Leveraging Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) at Pragna Bhavan, Agartala, on Wednesday, aiming to help local entrepreneurs explore international markets and expand their businesses through India’s trade agreements with other countries.
The programme focused on creating awareness among Tripura’s MSMEs about the opportunities available under India’s Free Trade Agreements and explaining how local businesses can benefit from reduced customs duties, international trade arrangements and improved access to overseas markets.
The initiative was organised by the Department of Commerce, Government of India, in collaboration with the Regional Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) Office, Kolkata, and the Tripura Department of Industries and Commerce. The India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) participated as the Knowledge Partner.
Dr C. Vanlalramsanga, Joint Secretary of the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, inaugurated the programme. Addressing the participants, he highlighted the growing importance of Free Trade Agreements in strengthening India’s international trade relations and creating new business opportunities for domestic industries.
He said India had been signing new trade agreements with different countries and emphasised that Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises should also benefit from these arrangements. He encouraged entrepreneurs and local businesses in Tripura to explore overseas markets, improve their competitiveness and seek opportunities to sell their products internationally at better prices.
Dr Vanlalramsanga also highlighted the Central Government’s efforts to simplify business procedures and promote digital services to make business operations easier. He stressed that greater awareness of international trade policies could help MSMEs participate more actively in global commerce.
Kiran Gitte, Secretary of the Department of Industries and Commerce, attended the programme as the guest of honour. In his address, he emphasised the importance of maintaining high product quality, improving business standards and identifying new markets for sustainable growth.
Referring to the economic development of countries such as Singapore and Malaysia, Gitte highlighted the role of international trade in supporting economic expansion. He said Tripura’s local industries could also benefit from greater participation in international markets by improving product quality, strengthening business capabilities and exploring export opportunities.
Special attention was given during the programme to explaining the practical aspects of Free Trade Agreements, particularly reduced customs duties and Rules of Origin. These provisions are important for businesses seeking to understand the conditions under which their products can receive preferential tariff benefits when exported to countries with which India has trade agreements.
Trade experts from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry conducted technical sessions covering various aspects of export activities. The sessions explained export procedures, tariff benefits, necessary documentation and international trade regulations.
Participants were also provided with information on how to understand applicable trade rules and make use of available benefits under India’s FTAs. The discussions aimed to improve awareness among entrepreneurs about the procedures and requirements involved in entering foreign markets.
Dr Deepak Kumar, Director of the Industries and Commerce Department, delivered the welcome address, while the Additional Director of Industries and Commerce proposed the vote of thanks.
The programme witnessed participation from industrialists, entrepreneurs, representatives of business associations and individuals interested in export activities from different parts of Tripura.
The state-level outreach initiative is expected to strengthen awareness of international trade opportunities among local MSMEs and encourage entrepreneurs to explore markets beyond the domestic business environment.
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By providing information on trade agreements, customs benefits, export documentation and international business regulations, the programme sought to equip Tripura’s small and medium enterprises with greater knowledge to improve their market reach and competitiveness.
The initiative also reflects efforts by the Central and State Governments to connect local businesses with India’s expanding international trade network and support the growth of export-oriented enterprises in Tripura.
