New Delhi: Maharashtra has claimed the top position as India's most export-ready state, according to the latest government assessment. The state surpassed Tamil Nadu in the rankings released by Niti Aayog on Wednesday.
Maharashtra Leads Export Preparedness Rankings
The Niti Aayog's Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024 evaluates states and Union Territories on their readiness for international trade. Maharashtra demonstrated superior performance in large-scale policy execution, institutional depth, and sectoral competitiveness.
Gujarat secured the third position in the comprehensive assessment. Uttar Pradesh followed closely at fourth place. Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka completed the top six performers, ranking fifth and sixth respectively.
Economic Powerhouse Status Confirmed
Maharashtra's economic significance received clear validation through the report. The state recorded an annual gross state domestic product of approximately ₹40.4 trillion during FY24. This substantial figure represents around 13% of India's total gross domestic product.
The state maintains a well-defined export portfolio that aligns perfectly with its industrial strengths. Maharashtra stands as one of India's most industrialized regions, hosting diverse economic activities across multiple sectors.
Changing Rankings Reflect Dynamic Progress
The previous edition of the index, released in 2023, presented a different order among top performers. Tamil Nadu had led that assessment, followed by Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, and Haryana.
Among smaller states, Uttarakhand emerged as the top performer. Jammu & Kashmir and Nagaland also demonstrated strong export readiness within this category.
National Export Ambitions Require State-Level Strengthening
Niti Aayog emphasized that India's ambitious export targets depend heavily on state-level improvements. The country aims to achieve $1 trillion in merchandise exports by the end of this decade. Becoming a developed economy by 2047 represents another crucial national goal.
The index provides valuable tools for assessing export ecosystems at state and district levels. It identifies structural challenges, growth opportunities, and policy interventions needed for enhanced competitiveness.
Expert Perspectives on Export Readiness
Niti Aayog chief executive BVR Subrahmanyam highlighted the importance of state-level improvements during the report's release event. He stated that enhancing export readiness supports long-term growth and employment generation. Reducing regional disparities and integrating into global value chains become more achievable with stronger export foundations.
Niti Aayog member Arvind Virmani offered specific guidance for states and Union Territories. He recommended identifying sector-specific strengths while addressing existing weaknesses. Maintaining export momentum requires continuous attention to product quality and competitive advantages.
Comprehensive Evaluation Framework
The Export Preparedness Index employs multiple indicators across several key parameters. These include export infrastructure quality, business ecosystem support, policy and governance effectiveness, and actual export performance. The 2024 edition expands its analytical scope compared to previous versions.
Manufacturing and Trade Central to Economic Vision
The report underscores manufacturing's critical role in India's economic transformation. One national target involves scaling up manufacturing output to contribute 10% to global manufacturing GDP by 2047.
International trade assumes pivotal importance in India's development strategy. It serves as a key driver for industrial growth, job creation, and deeper integration into global value chains. The current global economic volatility makes these connections even more significant.
States now have clear benchmarks for improving their export competitiveness. The index provides actionable insights for policy makers at various governance levels. Regional strengths can be leveraged more effectively through targeted interventions and strategic planning.
