Mandi Finalises Export Action Plan to Drive Economic Growth
The District Export Promotion Committee (DEPC) of Mandi has finalised the District Export Action Plan (DEAP), a strategic roadmap aimed at transforming the district into a prominent export hub. The plan was approved during a meeting chaired by Additional District Magistrate Dr Madan Kumar, where stakeholders assessed Mandi's export potential and identified key sectors for development.
Under the action plan, priority will be given to five sectors: pharmaceuticals, agriculture and agriculture-based products (including fruit wine), aromatic plants, handloom and handicrafts, and tourism and allied services. These sectors were selected based on their potential to expand Mandi's footprint in domestic and international markets.
Focus on Traditional Crafts and Agriculture
In the handloom and handicrafts segment, special emphasis will be placed on traditional shawls, woodcraft, intricate wood carving, and metal crafts, which reflect the region's rich cultural heritage. However, floriculture was excluded from the focus sectors after detailed deliberations.
Dr Madan Kumar highlighted that Mandi possesses immense export potential and stressed the need for coordinated efforts among government departments, industry stakeholders, and entrepreneurs to unlock these opportunities. "Through effective implementation of the export action plan, we aim to strengthen local industries, create employment opportunities and enhance the district’s contribution to exports," he said.
Addressing Challenges and Facilitating Market Access
The meeting also focused on identifying challenges faced by exporters and formulating strategies to address bottlenecks, ensuring smoother access to national and international markets. UK Acharya, Joint Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ludhiana, joined virtually and briefed participants on the Government of India's 'Districts as Export Hubs' initiative under the Foreign Trade Policy 2023. He provided details on export promotion schemes, including the Import Export Code (IEC), certificates of origin, free trade agreements (FTAs), and other support mechanisms.
Acharya informed stakeholders that obtaining an IEC had become a simplified online process, now completable within 24 hours at a nominal fee, making it easier for businesses and entrepreneurs to enter export markets.
Expected Impact on Local Economy
The finalisation of the plan is expected to provide a strategic framework for enhancing exports, promoting local products, strengthening tourism-based services, and creating new economic opportunities for entrepreneurs and artisans across Mandi district. The DEPC aims to position Mandi as a strong and competitive export hub in Himachal Pradesh through effective implementation of the action plan.
