Inclusion of DPIIT-Recognized Start-ups in 'Source from India' on Trade Connect ePlatform

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Dated: 07.08.2026

Inclusion of DPIIT-Recognized Start-ups in ‘Source from India’ on Trade Connect ePlatform

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has announced a significant update to the Trade Connect ePlatform, aimed at boosting the global visibility and export potential of Indian start-ups. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the new provisions, eligibility criteria, and step-by-step guidance for start-ups to leverage the ‘Source from India’ feature.

What is Trade Connect ePlatform?

Trade Connect is a digital interface launched by the Government of India to support Indian exporters. Its flagship feature, ‘Source from India,’ serves as a central reference point for international buyers to discover and connect with Indian exporters. Exporters can create personalized microsites to showcase their products and credentials, enhancing their reach in global markets.

Key Update: Start-up Inclusion

Recognizing the growing contribution of start-ups to India’s export landscape, the DGFT has amended the eligibility criteria for the ‘Source from India’ feature:

DPIIT-Recognized Start-ups: Start-ups recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) are now eligible to register and create microsites on the platform.
Unique Start-up Badge: Eligible start-ups will receive a special badge on their profiles, highlighting their status to international buyers.
Verification Process: Start-ups will be onboarded after verification of their export activity through the DGFT IEC database.
Special Exception: Even if a DPIIT-recognized start-up does not meet the standard export realization criteria, it can still register, provided it holds an active Importer Exporter Code (IEC) and is not on the DEL (Denied Entity List).

Why This Matters

Enhanced Visibility: Start-ups gain exposure to international buyers through an official government platform.
Export Growth: The initiative supports start-ups in expanding their export footprint and diversifying India’s export basket.
Innovation Recognition: It positions India as a hub for innovation-led exports, showcasing high-quality, novel products and services.

Step-by-Step Guide: Registering for ‘Source from India’

Pre-requisites

User Account: Register on the Trade Connect ePlatform (www.trade.gov.in). Existing DGFT platform users can use their credentials.
Link IEC: Ensure your user account is linked to a valid and eligible IEC. To link, visit the login page and select “Haven’t linked your IEC?” for instructions.

Creating Your Microsite

Login: Access Trade Connect using your email linked to the eligible IEC.
Dashboard Access: Click on “Create Source from India Profile” on your dashboard (visible only to eligible users). Alternatively, use “Manage Source from India Profile” under “My Dashboard.”
Profile Submission: Enter your export achievements, complete required declarations, and submit your profile for approval.
Public Listing: Once approved, your profile will be visible to international buyers on the Source from India page.

Additional Support and Promotion

Indian Missions Abroad: Embassies and missions have been instructed to use ‘Source from India’ as a reference for foreign buyers seeking Indian suppliers.
Industry Associations: Export Promotion Councils, Commodity Boards, and trade associations are encouraged to publicize this initiative and support member participation.

In case you face any issues related to Indirect Tax-Customs, GST, Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), Arbitration matters and Central Licensing and related advisory matters in India then please feel free to get in touch with SJ EXIM Services.

We offer Legal advice and litigation support in matters related to Indirect Tax-Customs, FTP, other Indirect Tax matters & Arbitration law, all sorts of Central licensing and related matters. Come and explore the new way of doing business with us!

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Source: DGFT

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