Maharashtra has emerged as India’s most export-ready large state, securing the top position in NITI Aayog’s Export Preparedness Index 2024 and replacing Tamil Nadu, which had held the lead for several years. The shift highlights a gradual widening of India’s trade competitiveness across regions at a time of uncertain global trade conditions.
The index assesses states across governance, infrastructure, industrial ecosystems, and export performance, focusing on both current outcomes and long-term readiness. Maharashtra’s rise reflects its ability to combine its role as a financial and commercial hub with a strong push towards export-oriented manufacturing, services, and logistics. Investments in ports, airports, industrial corridors, digital governance, and access to finance have strengthened links between local producers and global markets.
A diverse export base has been a key strength for the state, spanning automobiles, engineering goods, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, IT, and business services. This mix has helped Maharashtra remain resilient to sector-specific volatility and score well on future preparedness.
Tamil Nadu, now ranked second, remains a strong export performer, while Gujarat secured third place. The index also indicates that export competitiveness is spreading beyond traditional hubs, driven by better connectivity, policy reforms, and competitive federalism, which together are strengthening India’s overall export capacity.
