Market Access Initiative (MAI) Scheme

Boosting Indian exports through branding, marketing, and international market development support.

Overview

The Market Access Initiative (MAI) is a centrally sponsored scheme under the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India. It aims to promote exports by assisting export promotion organizations in activities such as market research, product branding and marketing, buyer-seller meets, exhibitions and trade fairs in India and abroad, reverse buyer-seller meets, and training and capacity building.

Launched to strengthen India’s export performance, the MAI Scheme helps Indian exporters access new markets, diversify product offerings, and improve competitiveness in the global marketplace.

Objectives

  • Enhance export competitiveness of Indian products and services.
  • Promote branding of Indian goods in foreign markets.
  • Provide financial assistance for participation in international fairs and expos.
  • Support product development and adaptation to global standards.
  • Facilitate market studies and research.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligible Entities

  • Export Promotion Councils (EPCs)
  • Industry Associations
  • Trade Promotion Organizations
  • Federations and Chambers of Commerce
  • Commodity Boards
  • State/Central Government Agencies
  • Individual exporters or companies are not directly funded — they must apply through a nominated EPC or trade body.

Documents Required

1.Detailed Project Proposal with budget
2.Registration certificate of the organization (EPC/association)
3.MoU/Letter of Intent with foreign fair organizers or partners
4.Export performance data of the industry or members
5.Audited financial statements
6.Utilization certificates of earlier sanctioned funds (if any)
7.Bank account details (cancelled cheque)
8.List of exporters/participants
9.DGFT RCMC certificate
10.Self-declaration or affidavit for fund utilization
11.Post-event documentation: utilization certificate, audit report, photographs, participant feedback, and outcome report

Activities Covered

  • Participation in Trade Fairs and Exhibitions Abroad
  • Organizing Buyer-Seller Meets (BSMs)
  • Brand Promotion Campaigns
  • Reverse Buyer-Seller Meets in India
  • Conducting Market Surveys or Studies
  • Product Registration Abroad
  • Bar Coding, Labelling, and Certifications
  • Hiring Warehousing and Showrooms
  • Training and Capacity Building of Exporters
  • Testing Charges for International Standards

Financial Assistance

  • Trade Fairs / BSMs Abroad: Up to 100% cost (space rental, stalls, publicity)
  • Reverse BSMs in India: Up to 100% cost (foreign buyer hospitality, venue, promotion)
  • Market Research / Surveys: 100% of approved cost
  • Product Registration / Certification: 50–75% depending on market
  • Brand Promotion & Advertisement: 50–75% based on proposal and approval

Guidelines

  • Project approval is done by the Empowered Committee under the Chairmanship of the Commerce Secretary.
  • Advance disbursement of 50% may be granted; balance after submission of utilization report.
  • Preference to MSMEs, high-export potential sectors, and countries where India is underrepresented.
  • Application must be submitted at least 90 days before the event.
  • No duplication of grant allowed from other government schemes.
  • Periodic review of outcomes by the Ministry.