Export Promotion Mission (EPM):7 New Interventions for MSMEs

The landscape of Indian trade is undergoing a seismic shift. On February 20, 2026, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, took a monumental step toward solidifying India's status as a global trade leader by launching seven additional interventions under the Export Promotion Mission (EPM).

For Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), these updates aren't just policy changes — they are a bridge to the global marketplace. If you are a business owner figuring out how to raise funds for a startup in India to go global, the Export Promotion Mission serves as the engine to sustain your momentum.

What is the Export Promotion Mission (EPM)?

The Export Promotion Mission (EPM) is a flagship initiative by the Department of Commerce. Its primary objective is to enhance the global competitiveness of Indian exporters, specifically targeting MSMEs, startups, and emerging entrepreneurs.

The mission is built on a 'Twin-Pillar' strategy:

• Niryat Protsahan: Focusing on financial enablers and credit facilities.
• Niryat Disha: Focusing on the trade ecosystem, logistics, and compliance.

7 New Interventions: Breaking Down the Framework

Minister Piyush Goyal's latest announcement brings the total number of operational interventions under the Export Promotion Mission to 10 out of the 11 proposed. These new measures are laser-focused on digital trade, financial liquidity, and logistics.

1. 01

   1. Export Factoring Support

   Allows businesses to receive immediate funds against their invoices. Benefit: A 2.75% interest subvention on eligible transactions. Limit: Capped at Rs 50 lakh per MSME annually. Must be processed through RBI or IFSCA-recognized entities.

2. 02

   2. Direct E-Commerce Credit Facility

   Provides working capital for e-commerce retail exports. Financial Support: Up to Rs 50 lakh. Security: Offers a 90% guarantee coverage, reducing the risk for lending institutions.

3. 03

   3. Overseas Inventory Credit Facility

   Helps exporters maintain ready-to-ship stock in key global markets. Financial Support: Credit up to Rs 5 crore. Security: A 75% guarantee coverage.

4. 04

   4. TRACE (Trade Regulations, Accreditation & Compliance Enablement)

   Provides financial relief for testing and certification. Reimbursement: 60% for the Positive List and 75% for the Priority Positive List. Annual Ceiling: Up to Rs 25 lakh per IEC (Importer-Exporter Code).

5. 05

   5. FLOW (Facilitating Logistics, Overseas Warehousing & Fulfilment)

   Aims to bridge the logistics cost gap. Support: Assistance for overseas warehousing and e-commerce export hubs. Funding: Up to 30% of the approved project cost for a duration of three years.

6. 06

   6. LIFT (Logistics Interventions for Freight & Transport)

   Helps exporters in districts that haven't traditionally been export hubs. Reimbursement: Up to 30% of eligible freight expenditure. Cap: Rs 20 lakh per IEC annually.

7. 07

   7. INSIGHT (Integrated Support for Trade Intelligence & Facilitation)

   Focuses on capacity building and trade intelligence. Funding: Up to 50% of project cost for private proposals and 100% for government proposals. Focus: Trade intelligence systems and exporter training.

Comparative Summary of Financial Interventions

Here is a quick reference table for all the financial interventions under the EPM:

Why These Interventions Matter for MSMEs

The Export Promotion Mission isn't just about giving out subsidies; it's about building a holistic framework for growth.

• Reducing the Cost of Capital: By offering interest subventions and credit guarantees, the government lowers the interest rates MSMEs pay, making them as affordable as a Mudra loan.
• Strengthening Global Competitiveness: MSMEs can now afford the certifications required to sell in the EU, USA, and Japan.
• Leveraging Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): India now has concluded several FTAs, including the India-EU Free Trade Agreement. The EPM provides the financial 'muscle' to utilize these deals.

Implementation Partners: A Coordinated Effort

The Export Promotion Mission is a massive synchronization between various government bodies:

• Ministry of MSME & Ministry of Finance: Policy and budgetary support.
• EXIM Bank: Providing the credit and guarantee frameworks.
• Indian Missions Abroad: Acting as the 'on-ground' intelligence for Indian exporters.

Steps to Benefit from the Export Promotion Mission

Follow these steps to access EPM benefits for your business:

1. 01

   Obtain an IEC

   Ensure your Importer-Exporter Code is active before applying for any EPM intervention.

2. 02

   Identify Your Category

   Determine if you fall under the 'Positive List' for compliance reimbursements under TRACE.

3. 03

   Startup Recognition

   Ensure you have your Startup India certificate to unlock additional benefits across EPM schemes.

4. 04

   Prepare Documentation

   Because the EPM involves multiple ministries, your application must be flawless and audit-ready.

5. 05

   Consult Experts

   Our consultancy specializes in simplifying this process, helping you prepare applications for government grants and EPM interventions.

Emerging Technologies and Exports

Minister Goyal emphasized that the future of exports lies in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Quantum Computing. The EPM is designed to support startups in these high-tech sectors, ensuring India exports high-value intellectual property, supported by schemes like MeitY Genesis EIR 2.

Conclusion

The launch of these seven additional interventions under the Export Promotion Mission marks a turning point for the 'Make in India' initiative. By addressing capital costs, logistics, and compliance, the EPM levels the playing field. For the Indian MSME, the world is now an accessible opportunity.

If you are looking to tap into EPM benefits but aren't sure where to start, reach out to our team. We provide end-to-end support for MSME growth.