A recent report highlights the immense potential of India’s sports equipment manufacturing sector, projecting a significant leap in global market share from the current 0.5% to 11% by 2036. This growth could translate into exports worth $8.1 billion and generate nearly 54 lakh additional jobs. The report underscores the importance of leveraging the upcoming decade of global sporting events, including the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, and the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, as a strategic opportunity to scale production and integrate Indian manufacturers into global supply chains.
It emphasizes that India’s ambition to host the 2036 Olympics should align with the “Make in India” vision, using the event as a demand catalyst for domestic industries, particularly MSMEs. Recent government initiatives, such as budgetary allocation, cluster development, and institutional reforms, provide a strong foundation to address existing constraints.
However, challenges persist, including high raw material and certification costs, limited branding, and market access barriers. The report recommends cluster-led development, improved testing infrastructure, and a robust domestic raw material ecosystem, alongside a unified “Brand India” strategy to enhance global competitiveness and demand.
