Maharashtra has emerged as India’s most export-ready state in NITI Aayog’s Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024, underlining its leadership in driving the country’s outbound trade and global competitiveness.
Tamil Nadu and Gujarat secured the second and third positions respectively, while Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Punjab completed the list of top-ranking large states, according to the government think tank’s report released on Wednesday.
Among smaller states and Union Territories, Uttarakhand led the rankings, followed by Jammu and Kashmir, Nagaland, Dadra and Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu, Goa and Tripura.
The Export Preparedness Index assesses how well Indian states are positioned to expand exports by evaluating parameters such as export policy, business ecosystem, infrastructure quality and export performance. The index uses a data-driven methodology based on inputs from both state and central government sources.
Releasing the report, NITI Aayog Chief Executive Officer B V R Subrahmanyam said India’s growing network of free trade and economic partnership agreements makes strong domestic export foundations even more critical.
“As India expands its trade engagements globally, states must build ecosystems that can respond to new opportunities, align with international standards and create competitiveness across districts,” Subrahmanyam said.
He added that several states have already begun strengthening their export strategies through dedicated policies, institutions and infrastructure, signalling a shift towards a more structured and proactive export push.
Exports are a key driver of economic growth, helping countries integrate into global value chains, earn foreign exchange and enhance their global standing. For India — the world’s fastest-growing major economy — stronger exports are essential for improving economic resilience, narrowing trade deficits and ensuring more inclusive growth.