According to the Export Preparedness Index 2022 released by NITI Aayog, Uttar Pradesh has secured the overall seventh position in India in terms of exports. The top four exporters in the country were Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat, followed by Haryana, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh.

In terms of absolute export value, Uttar Pradesh ranked fifth in the country, with exports worth USD 21 billion, placing behind four coastal states. In the previous financial year 2021, the state held the sixth spot in the rankings.

The NITI Aayog's index evaluated various parameters, including policy framework, business ecosystem, export ecosystem, and export performance. The comparison between coastal and landlocked states emphasized the significance of access to ports for engaging in international trade.

An important achievement for Noida and Greater Noida was the ninth position secured by Gautambudh Nagar among the top 10 export districts in the country.

During the 2021-22 financial years, India's total export trade amounted to USD 676 billion, with goods trade accounting for USD 422 billion and services reaching USD 254 billion. Notable contributors to total exports were mobile phones, meat, and aluminum products.

Consultants who prepared the index highlighted positive aspects in Uttar Pradesh, including better transport connectivity (ranking third in the country), an increased number of cold storage facilities, higher exporter registrations, and growth in the export of ODOP (One District One Product) and GI (Geographical Indication) products.

To further boost exports, the government is urging senior officials to implement the district export action plan in key cities, optimize existing IT and pharma parks, organize trade fairs and exhibitions for entrepreneurs, and facilitate affordable testing through National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) accredited laboratories.

However, the consultants also identified challenges, such as a significant gap in power supply and demand for export-oriented industries, low foreign direct investment, and reduced value addition within the manufacturing sector. Uttar Pradesh is encouraged to establish more special economic zones or industrial clusters to incentivize exporters.

Amit Mohan Prasad, Additional Chief Secretary for MSME and export promotion, expressed that the ranking reflects the state's export scenario during 2021-22. He highlighted ongoing initiatives to improve the export ecosystem and infrastructure and announced the upcoming launch of UP's first international trade show in September, to be held annually.

Image source: ET