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Centre Launches ₹4,531-Crore Market Access Support Scheme

January 01, 2026

New Market Access Support Scheme Rolled Out

The Union government has launched a new Market Access Support (MAS) intervention with a total outlay of ₹4,531 crore , aimed at strengthening India’s export ecosystem over the next six years . The initiative is designed to enhance India’s presence in global markets by facilitating structured, outcome-driven engagement between Indian exporters and overseas buyers.

Part of the Export Promotion Mission

MAS is a key component of the ₹25,000-crore Export Promotion Mission approved by the Union Cabinet earlier. Anchored by the Department of Commerce , the scheme prioritises micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) , first-time exporters and firms operating in notified priority sectors. Officials noted that the intervention has a clear MSME orientation to broaden the export base and reduce over-dependence on a limited set of exporters and destinations.

Buyer Connect and Market Diversification

According to the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) , the central objective of MAS is to improve buyer connectivity and diversify export markets. Support will be extended for Buyer-Seller Meets , participation in international trade fairs and exhibitions, Mega Reverse Buyer-Seller Meets hosted in India, and trade delegations to priority and emerging markets. A rolling three-to-five-year calendar of key market access events will be prepared to ensure continuity and better planning.

Norms, Arrears and Participation Criteria

The government will also clear around ₹330 crore in pending arrears under the earlier Market Access Initiative (MAI) scheme. Under MAS, a minimum 35 per cent MSME participation has been mandated for supported events. Delegation sizes have been benchmarked at 50 participants , with flexibility based on market relevance.

Digital Delivery and Support for Small Exporters

Small exporters with annual export turnover of up to ₹75 lakh will be eligible for partial airfare support. Event-level financial caps and cost-sharing norms have been rationalised, and all processes—from proposal submission to fund release and monitoring—will be handled through a dedicated digital portal , ensuring transparency and ease of access nationwide.

Important Facts for Exams

  • MAS outlay: ₹4,531 crore for six years

  • Part of ₹25,000-crore Export Promotion Mission

  • Minimum 35% MSME participation mandatory

  • ₹330 crore MAI arrears to be cleared

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