Led by senior officials, speakers at a programme organised here on Friday by the Centre’s Department of Commerce urged exporters, particularly micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to engage with the Department and trade promotion agencies such as APEDA, DGFT and ECGC to enhance exports from the State.

They called upon the exporters to participate in awareness and capacity-building programmes, leverage available government schemes and prioritise quality standards and certifications to scale up exports, organisers of the ‘12 Years achievements of the Department of Commerce and awareness programme on boosting exports from Telangana’ said in a release. It was organised by the Department, under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, in association with APEDA.

Economic Adviser, EP (Agri) Division in the Department of Commerce Priya P. Nair said over the last 12 years, the Department has played a pivotal role in strengthening India’s position in global trade through sustained policy reforms, export promotion initiatives, market diversification and digital transformation.

India’s exports have nearly doubled from around $468 billion in 2013-14 to over $860 billion in 2025-26, driven by robust growth in both merchandise and services exports despite significant global economic uncertainties.

National Turmeric Board Secretary N. Bhavanisri said India produces nearly 12 million tonnes of spices annually, but exports only about 13% of the production, indicating significant scope for growth. Spices contribute more than 8% of India’s agricultural exports.

APEDA Assistant General Manager R.P. Naidu said Telangana contributes ₹8,000-₹10,000 crore to India’s non-basmati rice exports and is emerging as a major confectionery export hub through companies such as Ravi Foods and Karachi Bakery. He highlighted APEDA’s support for exports of GI-tagged Banganapalli mangoes, promotion of organic trade through Tracenet and financial assistance for export infrastructure and quality testing facilities.