Export and Global Markets — Current Affairs 2026
Current Affairs Connections
India-UAE CEPA Boosts Handicraft Exports by 35%
March 2024The India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), implemented in May 2022, has shown significant positive impact on handicraft exports. UAE imports of Indian handicrafts grew from $191 million in 2022-23 to $258 million in 2023-24, representing a 35% increase. The agreement provides zero-duty access for most handicraft categories, making Indian products more competitive in the UAE market. This success has prompted similar negotiations with other GCC countries and demonstrates the potential of bilateral trade agreements in boosting handicraft exports.
UPSC Angle: Questions may focus on the role of bilateral trade agreements in export promotion, particularly in the context of cultural products and traditional industries
National Handicrafts Development Programme Launched with Rs. 2,500 Crore Allocation
August 2024The Government of India launched the National Handicrafts Development Programme (NHDP) with a budget allocation of Rs. 2,500 crore over five years (2024-2029). The programme aims to double handicraft exports to $7 billion by 2030 through integrated cluster development, skill enhancement, design innovation, and digital integration. Key components include establishing 50 new handicraft clusters, training 500,000 artisans in contemporary skills, creating 100 design development centers, and developing a national handicrafts e-marketplace. The programme also includes provisions for interest-free loans to artisan cooperatives and export incentives for sustainable practices.
UPSC Angle: Expected questions on government schemes for traditional industry promotion, rural employment generation, and export diversification strategies