Gujarat Govt OKays Formation of Gujarat Export Promotion Council to Boost Global Trade

Gandhinagar: The Gujarat government has approved the establishment of the Gujarat Export Promotion Council (GEPC) as a dedicated institutional platform to strengthen the state’s export ecosystem, support MSMEs and startups, and connect district-level industries with global markets, a press release said.

The council will be established as a wholly state-owned, non-profit private limited company under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013, under the Industries and Mines Department. According to a government resolution dated November 3, 2026, its registered office will be in Gandhinagar.

GEPC to support MSMEs and startups

The council will assist MSMEs, startups and other industries in identifying international markets, developing export strategies and navigating foreign trade procedures, regulations and certification requirements.

It will provide market intelligence, business consultancy, mentoring and handholding support, besides organising training programmes, workshops and seminars for exporters. It will also facilitate participation in domestic and international trade fairs and marketing initiatives.

Digital platforms, finance and logistics support

GEPC plans to develop digital trade platforms, an exporter portal, common facility centres, incubation centres and testing and certification facilities.

Exporters will receive assistance with product quality testing, international certifications, trade finance, insurance, pre- and post-shipment financial facilities, logistics and supply chain management.

The council will also provide guidance on branding, product development, international compliance, trade analytics and market intelligence.

District-wise export plans to promote local products

The council will prepare District Export Promotion Plans for every district, identifying local industrial strengths, production capacities, market demand and export potential.

District Export Promotion Councils and regional and sector-specific institutions will coordinate and monitor export-related activities to help local products reach international markets.

GEPC will also undertake global branding and marketing campaigns to establish ‘Made in Gujarat’ as an internationally recognised brand.

Technology-driven and sustainable exports

The council will promote the adoption of Artificial Intelligence, blockchain, digitisation and Industry 4.0 technologies in export processes. It will also encourage green technologies, environmentally sustainable products and compliance with international environmental standards.

Exporters will receive support in securing intellectual property rights in overseas markets and addressing trade disputes, legal issues and non-tariff barriers.

Council to have state-appointed board

GEPC will initially have an authorised and paid-up capital of ₹1 lakh, with 100% shareholding held in the name of the Governor of Gujarat through authorised state government nominees.

The company will have a Board of Directors comprising three to 15 members. The Chief Secretary will serve as the chairperson, the Industries and Mines Department’s Additional Chief Secretary/Principal Secretary/Secretary as vice-chairperson, and the Industries Commissioner as managing director.

The board will also include representatives from various state government departments and agencies, including GIDC, iNDEXTb and the Gujarat Infrastructure Development Board.

The establishment of GEPC is expected to provide an integrated framework for export promotion, strengthen industrial competitiveness and create new opportunities for Gujarat’s products in international markets. DeshGujarat