Hello Mumbai MSME Desk:
Mumbai Marking World MSME Day, Hello Mumbai News Editor-in-Chief Aleem Shaikh held an exclusive interaction with Sushma Kolwankar, Chairperson of the IGTD EXIM Chamber of Commerce, Founder of Global Fortune Mission India Pvt. Ltd., and an internationally acclaimed business and export consultant with more than 18 years of experience. A distinguished speaker and author of two published books on export-import, Kolwankar shared her perspectives on the evolving MSME ecosystem, export-led growth, global market access, entrepreneurship, and the policy measures needed to enhance the global competitiveness of Indian MSMEs. She also emphasized the importance of innovation, capacity building, strategic partnerships, and international trade in driving sustainable economic growth and positioning India as a leading global business hub.
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Could you Introduce yourself for our readersÂ
Sushma Kolwankar
Sure I am Sushma Kolwankar, Chairperson of the IGTD EXIM Chamber of Commerce, Founder of GF (Global Fortune) Mission India Pvt. Ltd., and an international business and export consultant with 18+ years of experience. I am also a speaker and author of two published books on export-import business.
Over the years, I have trained more than 2 lakh people across PAN India and have helped more than 1000+ MSMEs, manufacturers, and corporates start, expand, and scale their export business. I have also led 16+ international business delegations to countries including Oman, Qatar, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Russia, Hong Kong, Kenya, and Sri Lanka, creating global business opportunities for Indian enterprises and help them for the Market development.
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How is IGTD EXIM Chamber of Commerce contributing to MSME growth and India’s export development?
Sushma Kolwankar:
IGTD EXIM Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to helping MSMEs grow beyond the domestic market and explore global opportunities. We support businesses through export training, our Ignexii online EXIM learning platform, international trade delegations, B2B meetings, buyer-seller connects, networking events, and market intelligence.
Our mission is to equip MSMEs with the right knowledge, global exposure, and business connections so they can confidently enter international markets. We firmly believe that every new exporter strengthens India’s economy by creating employment, increasing exports, and bringing valuable foreign exchange into the country.
Through our initiatives, we are committed to supporting India’s vision of becoming a multi-trillion-dollar economy and a leading global export powerhouse.
HELLO MUMBAI NEWS :
World MSME Day reminds us of the importance of small and medium enterprises. In your opinion, what role do MSMEs play in India’s economic growth and global competitiveness?
Sushma Kolwankar:
MSMEs are the backbone of the Indian economy. They generate employment, promote innovation, and strengthen local manufacturing. But today, their role goes beyond serving the domestic market.
The world is looking at India as a reliable manufacturing and sourcing destination. If our MSMEs focus on quality, innovation, and global standards, they can become strong contributors to India’s export growth. Every successful exporter not only grows their own business but also creates jobs and brings valuable foreign exchange into the country.
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The Government of India has set ambitious export targets. How can MSMEs contribute meaningfully to achieving these goals?
Sushma Kolwankar: India cannot achieve its export targets with only large corporations. The real strength lies in millions of MSMEs across the country.
Every district has unique products, skilled manufacturers, and entrepreneurs with great potential. If more MSMEs start exporting even to one or two countries, India’s export numbers will grow significantly. Government policies and trade agreements are creating opportunities, but businesses must be ready to take advantage of them.
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Today, many MSMEs are doing well in the domestic market. Why should they now consider expanding into international markets?
Sushma Kolwankar: Depending on only one market always carries risk. When businesses enter international markets, they diversify their customer base, reduce dependency on local demand, and increase their revenue opportunities.
Many Indian products are highly appreciated globally. Sometimes businesses don’t realize that what they manufacture every day has excellent demand overseas. Exporting is not just about increasing sales; it is about building a stronger and more sustainable business.
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Is exporting only for large companies, or can MSMEs also build sustainable global businesses?
Sushma Kolwankar: This is one of the biggest misconceptions. Today, even a small manufacturer or entrepreneur can export successfully. Technology has made it easier to connect with buyers worldwide. Success in exports is not determined by the size of your company. It depends on your product quality, consistency, commitment, and willingness to learn international business practices.
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What are the biggest challenges that prevent MSMEs from entering international markets, and how can they overcome them?
Sushma Kolwankar: The biggest challenge is not finance. The biggest challenge is lack of awareness and fear of the unknown. Many businesses think exports are complicated, require huge investments, or involve too much risk. But when they receive proper guidance, understand the process, and start step by step, exports become much more manageable. Knowledge reduces risk.
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What are the key preparations every MSME should make before starting its export journey?
Sushma Kolwankar: Before approaching international buyers, businesses should focus on a few basics. Understand your product’s global demand. Identify suitable target countries. Ensure product quality and proper packaging. Complete the required registrations and export documentation. Most importantly, develop a clear export strategy instead of waiting for opportunities to come on their own.
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Which sectors and Indian products currently have the strongest demand in global markets?
Sushma Kolwankar:
India has opportunities across many sectors. Agriculture and food products, spices, processed foods, pharmaceuticals, engineering products, textiles, handicrafts, chemicals, furniture, and IT services all have strong international demand. Instead of asking whether there is demand, businesses should ask which countries are looking for their products. Market selection is the key.
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Finding reliable overseas buyers is one of the biggest concerns for businesses. What are the most effective ways for MSMEs to identify and connect with genuine international buyers?
Sushma Kolwankar:
Buyer search should be systematic. Businesses should participate in international exhibitions, trade delegations, B2B meetings, buyer-seller platforms, embassy networks, export promotion councils, and verified online platforms. Equally important is buyer verification. Before doing business, always verify the buyer’s background, financial credibility, and market reputation. Finding buyers is important, but finding the right buyers is even more important.
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With technology transforming global trade, how can MSMEs leverage digital platforms, AI, and e-commerce to expand internationally?
Sushma Kolwankar:
Technology has completely changed international business. Today, AI can help businesses conduct market research, prepare professional communication, identify potential buyers, and analyze global trends. Digital marketing, LinkedIn, company websites, and B2B platforms allow MSMEs to showcase their products globally without opening offices abroad. Businesses that embrace technology will grow faster than those who don’t.
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Government organizations offer various export promotion schemes and support programs. How can MSMEs take better advantage of these opportunities?
Sushma Kolwankar: The Government has created many opportunities through export promotion councils, trade fairs, financial assistance, market development programs, and international exhibitions. Unfortunately, many businesses are unaware of these benefits. My advice is simple—stay connected with industry associations, chambers of commerce, and export promotion organizations because they regularly share opportunities that can help businesses enter global markets.
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In today’s competitive global market, what should MSMEs focus on to build long-term credibility and become preferred international suppliers?
Sushma Kolwankar: International buyers don’t only purchase products. They purchase trust. Businesses must consistently deliver quality, maintain timely shipments, communicate professionally, honor commitments, and provide excellent service. One satisfied buyer can generate repeat business for many years. In exports, reputation is your biggest asset.
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Based on your experience working with exporters across different industries, what common mistakes do businesses make while entering global markets?
Sushma Kolwankar: The biggest mistake is rushing to get orders without proper preparation. Some businesses don’t research the market, quote incorrect prices, ignore documentation, or deal with buyers without proper verification. Exports require planning and patience. Businesses that focus on building long-term relationships always perform better than those looking for quick profits.
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Looking ahead, what emerging international trade trends should MSMEs prepare for over the next five years?
Sushma Kolwankar:
The future belongs to businesses that are adaptable. Global buyers are increasingly looking for quality, sustainability, traceability, digital communication, and reliable supply partners. Artificial Intelligence, digital trade, free trade agreements, and e-commerce will create even more opportunities. MSMEs that continuously upgrade themselves will be the biggest beneficiaries of global trade.
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Finally, on the occasion of World MSME Day, what message would you like to share with India’s MSME community?
Sushma Kolwankar:
My message is very simple. Don’t limit your business to your city or even your country. The world is your marketplace. Indian entrepreneurs have the talent, products, and capability to compete globally. What we need is the confidence to take the first step and the commitment to keep learning. Every successful exporter once started with a single international customer. If you prepare yourself with the right knowledge, strategy, and persistence, there is no reason why your business cannot become a global brand.
- Thank you, and I wish every MSME continued growth and success on this World MSME Day.
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