The government is planning integrated Commerce and Industry offices in major cities to make it easier for businesses to connect with different departments and agencies from one location.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said the proposed setup is part of efforts to improve export support through both physical facilities and digital services. Instead of requiring businesses to approach separate departments at different places, the integrated offices are expected to bring multiple services together.

Goyal also highlighted the Trade Connect platform being developed for exporters. It will provide information based on products and HSN codes, covering tariffs in overseas markets, opportunities available through Free Trade Agreements and the process for using FTA benefits.

The proposed digital system will also use AI based tools to help businesses identify possible export opportunities and understand gaps in infrastructure.

The stakeholder workshop included representatives from industry associations, trade bodies and sectoral organisations. Discussions covered measures to improve the ease of doing business, trade facilitation, opportunities under India’s Free Trade Agreements and difficulties faced by businesses in accessing international markets and handling regulatory procedures.