Market Development Assistance Scheme for Exporters
Overview
The International Cooperation Scheme: Market Development Assistance (MDA) is a Government of India initiative under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. It supports Indian exporters in accessing international markets by subsidizing their participation in global trade events and promotional activities.
Objective
The scheme aims to develop new export markets, strengthen India’s presence in existing ones, and encourage small and medium exporters to compete at the global level. It helps businesses offset the high costs of international market development.
Benefits
- Financial assistance for participating in overseas trade fairs and exhibitions
- Support for buyer-seller meets conducted abroad
- Reimbursement of travel and stall rental costs
- Assistance for publicity and promotional material at international events
- Funding for reverse buyer-seller meets held in India
Eligibility
- Indian exporters with an Importer-Exporter Code (IEC)
- Export Promotion Councils and recognized trade bodies
- Industry associations organizing export promotion events
- MSMEs with limited export turnover are given priority
Exclusions
- Companies that have utilized similar assistance under other schemes for the same event
- Exporters with pending dues or defaults to government agencies
- Events that do not have prior approval from the relevant Export Promotion Council
Application Process
- Apply through the concerned Export Promotion Council or trade body
- Submit the proposal before the event with required documentation
- Get prior approval from the Ministry of Commerce
- Participate in the approved international event
- Submit post-event expenditure claims with supporting bills and reports
Documents Required
- Importer-Exporter Code certificate
- Company registration documents
- Export turnover certificate from chartered accountant
- Invitation or registration confirmation from the event organizer
- Bank account details
- Previous MDA utilization report, if applicable
