ADITYA RAJ DAS
Greater Noida: Uttar Pradesh is targeting a more than two-fold increase in annual exports to ₹5 lakh crore by 2030 from the current level of around ₹2 lakh crore, with Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal saying the expansion of India’s Free Trade Agreement (FTA) network will open greater international market access for the state’s entrepreneurs.
Addressing the UP International Trade Show in Greater Noida on Sunday, Goyal said higher exports, increased investment and stronger global market linkages would be critical to Uttar Pradesh’s ambition of becoming a $1 trillion economy.
He said India’s expanding network of FTAs would provide new opportunities for businesses in Uttar Pradesh to enter overseas markets. The Minister urged the state’s entrepreneurs and exporters to make greater use of these opportunities to expand their international presence.
Goyal said Uttar Pradesh had emerged as an important investment destination, supported by its industrial policies and investment-oriented schemes. He said companies and global investors were entering the state across sectors, which would contribute to industrial expansion and employment generation.
The Minister also highlighted the role of technology, skilled youth and evolving craftsmanship in strengthening the state’s economic base. He said platforms such as the UP International Trade Show were helping local businesses connect directly with international buyers, investors and other stakeholders.
The trade show has attracted participation from six partner countries, along with hundreds of delegates and exhibitors. Buyer-seller meetings are also being organised to facilitate business opportunities and connect Uttar Pradesh’s products and services with overseas markets.
Goyal said the state’s improving infrastructure, including expressways, modern airports and industrial parks, was strengthening its connectivity and creating conditions for industrial growth. He also pointed to Uttar Pradesh’s expanding footprint in emerging sectors such as defence, semiconductors and electronics.
The Minister cited the expansion of a major robotics manufacturing facility in Greater Noida as an example of the state’s growing capabilities in advanced manufacturing and technology.
He said the next phase of Uttar Pradesh’s economic growth would require simultaneous efforts to raise exports, attract international investment, expand tourism and build global brands from the state.
Goyal also stressed the need for closer coordination between the Centre and the Uttar Pradesh government, besides active participation by entrepreneurs, exporters, youth and other stakeholders, to sustain the state’s export and investment momentum.