India is making a significant push to empower its small businesses and artisans in the global e-commerce landscape with the development of E-Commerce Export Hubs (ECEHs). These dedicated hubs are designed to streamline the export process for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by offering cost-effective logistics, simplified customs procedures, and centralized facilities for warehousing, packaging, and certification — all in one location.
Five pilot ECEHs are currently being developed, with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) inviting proposals through Trade Notice No. 14/2025, dated August 22, 2024. The initiative supports Chapter Nine of the Foreign Trade Policy 2023, which focuses on advancing cross-border digital commerce.
A key measure introduced under this policy is the increase in the courier export limit to $11,382 (INR 10,00,000), making it easier for small exporters to ship goods internationally without the burden of high regulatory thresholds. Additionally, courier-based exports now qualify for critical government incentives, including Duty Drawback and Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP), helping businesses remain competitive globally.
To further broaden access, over 1,000 Dak Ghar Niryat Kendras (DNKs) have been launched to assist remote and rural entrepreneurs in accessing global markets. These post office-based export centers aim to create last-mile connectivity for small sellers, reducing costs and improving efficiency.
Collaborations with global e-commerce platforms, logistics providers, and domestic partners are also underway. Through Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and Letters of Intent (LoIs), the government is working to ensure easier onboarding, awareness programs, and export training for small business owners. These partnerships are expected to improve overall export preparedness and market reach for MSMEs.
Additionally, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released a draft circular proposing flexibility in export reporting. Under the revised Export Data Processing and Monitoring System (EDPMS), banks may be allowed to close shipping bills up to $11,382 using quarterly declarations from exporters, simplifying paperwork and boosting compliance ease.
The government has also launched the Trade Connect ePlatform — a digital resource for small exporters that aggregates data from Indian embassies and export councils, offering trade insights, updates, and tools to support informed decision-making.
Together, these initiatives aim to cultivate a seamless, tech-driven export ecosystem that enables small Indian businesses to thrive on the global e-commerce stage.
