The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, organised a national seminar in Chennai to help Indian MSMEs strengthen their digital capabilities and become better prepared to enter international markets. The event, titled “From Local to Global: Enabling Export-Ready MSMEs through Digital Commerce,” was held on August 18 at IIT Madras in collaboration with the institute’s Entrepreneurship Cell.
Organised by the MSME Development and Facilitation Office (MSME DFO), Chennai, the seminar brought together entrepreneurs, MSMEs, students, policymakers, financial institutions, export-sector stakeholders and digital commerce specialists. The programme focused on practical ways for small businesses to expand beyond domestic markets and connect with customers in India and overseas.
Digital Commerce Expanding Global Opportunities
Addressing the inaugural session, Praveen Yadav, Additional Chief Secretary of the MSME Department, Government of Tamil Nadu, said digital commerce is reshaping the way MSMEs access global markets. He noted that digital platforms can help enterprises overcome geographical limitations and reach customers across borders.
Yadav also stressed the need for stronger coordination between the Centre and states to establish an ecosystem that supports innovation, digital adoption and international competitiveness among MSMEs.
Prof. Manu Santhanam, Dean, IC&SR, IIT Madras, highlighted the importance of innovation and stronger academia-industry partnerships. He said collaboration between educational institutions and businesses can help MSMEs develop new products, adopt advanced technologies and improve their competitiveness.
Hansraj Verma, Director General, Council of State Industrial Development & Investment Corporation of India, underlined the importance of quality in building a strong position for Indian enterprises in both domestic and overseas markets. He also emphasised digitisation as an important tool for MSMEs seeking to broaden their market reach.
Practical Guidance on Export Readiness
Dhayalan, Director and Head, MSME DFO Chennai, delivered the keynote address and felicitated the distinguished guests. Reshma Rajeevan, Deputy Director, MSME DFO Chennai, delivered the welcome address and outlined the objectives of the programme.
The technical sessions provided participants with practical information on various aspects of international trade. Experts and officials from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), EXIM Bank, ECGC, IIT Madras and export and e-commerce consulting sectors discussed export procedures, trade finance, risk management, international payments and regulatory compliance.
Participants also received guidance on identifying overseas markets, digital onboarding and using e-commerce platforms to connect with international buyers. These sessions were aimed at helping MSMEs understand the requirements involved in transitioning from domestic operations to export-oriented businesses.
Focus on Market Access for MSMEs
The seminar was organised under the capacity-building component of the Ministry of MSME’s Procurement & Marketing Support (PMS) Scheme. The scheme supports awareness and capacity-building initiatives covering areas such as market access, packaging, import-export procedures, e-commerce platforms and other developments that can help MSMEs expand their customer base.
The Chennai seminar provided entrepreneurs with direct interaction opportunities with experts and stakeholders from the export and digital commerce ecosystem. Students and aspiring entrepreneurs also participated, gaining exposure to emerging opportunities in entrepreneurship, online commerce and international business.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks acknowledging the contributions of speakers, experts, panellists, participating MSMEs, students, partner institutions and the organising team.
The initiative underlines the Ministry of MSME’s continued efforts to improve market access, promote digital adoption and strengthen export preparedness among small businesses. By connecting MSMEs with knowledge, technology and market opportunities, such initiatives aim to help Indian enterprises move confidently from “Local to Global.”
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Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
