UPITS is a Premier Matchmaking Platform for Global Trade: Dr. Ajay Sahai, Director General | FIEO | India Expo Mart

Greater Noida (26 September 2025): The Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show (UPITS) 2025, being held at the India Expo Centre and Mart in Greater Noida, has once again positioned Uttar Pradesh as a major hub of global trade and investment opportunities. A highlight of the event was the launch of B2B meetings on September 25, inaugurated by Uttar Pradesh’s Industrial Development Minister Nand Gopal Nandi.

The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), established in 1965 by the Ministry of Commerce as the apex body promoting India’s exports, has been playing a pivotal role in facilitating these meetings.

Speaking exclusively to Ten News Network, FIEO Director General and CEO Dr. Ajay Sahai shared valuable insights about the initiative and the importance of UPITS for Indian exporters.

Dr. Ajay Sahai said, This is the third edition of the trade show. We began the concept of reverse buyer-seller meetings from the very first edition, and with each edition, it has grown stronger. This year, we have attracted buyers from as many as 85 countries, with nearly 550 international buyers participating. It has become a premier matchmaking platform connecting Indian sellers with foreign buyers.

He further revealed the encouraging business outcomes already witnessed at the show. In just the last 24 hours, business worth nearly ₹100 crore has been generated. What is most heartening is the participation of a large number of MSMEs, who are showcasing their products and actively engaging with international buyers. The response has been extremely positive, he added.

Highlighting the significance of UPITS for small-scale exporters, Dr. Sahai emphasized that the event provides cost-effective exposure to global markets. For micro and small enterprises, traveling abroad to attend international exhibitions is often prohibitive. But here, they are meeting global buyers right at their doorstep. The products being exhibited are highly impressive, and the government has played a critical role by providing infrastructure support and helping attract foreign buyers. Over the last three editions, the reputation of this show has grown substantially, making it a preferred destination for international buyers, he explained.

On the opportunities that B2B meetings unlock, Dr. Ajay Sahai said,These interactions not only lead to direct business deals but also generate valuable inquiries and feedback for exporters. In some cases, companies may even find opportunities for joint ventures or investments. Many international buyers are also exploring long-term supply chain linkages with India, which will further strengthen our position in global trade.

Beyond B2B meetings, FIEO has also been focusing on broader initiatives to prepare Indian exporters for international markets. We are continuously working on capacity building for new exporters. Many businesses still cater only to domestic markets, so we help them understand the nuances of global trade. For instance, tomorrow we are organizing a knowledge session on e-commerce, which is particularly suited for a state like Uttar Pradesh. The state has highly skilled craftsmen, artisans, women entrepreneurs, and small businesses with unique products, but they often lack the financial and marketing resources to venture into traditional exports. E-commerce can provide them with an accessible entry point into global trade, Dr. Ajay Sahai said.

He also praised the venue, India Expo Centre and Mart, for its world-class infrastructure. Even though India now has alternatives like Bharat Mandapam and the new facilities in Dwarka, many buyers still prefer this location. The international standards, integrated facilities including hotels, and the convenience of having everything under one roof make it a strong choice for hosting such large-scale trade shows, he observed.

In a message to budding exporters and entrepreneurs, Dr. Sahai encouraged them to remain optimistic. Do not be daunted by the challenges facing global trade. Within every challenge lies an opportunity. This is the moment for Uttar Pradesh’s entrepreneurs to seize these opportunities and translate them into reality. Platforms like UPITS provide exactly the kind of exposure and support needed to succeed, he concluded.

UPITS 2025, supported by the state government and global trade partners, is not only amplifying Uttar Pradesh’s industrial and entrepreneurial strengths but also reaffirming FIEO’s role as the voice of Indian exporters worldwide. Together, they are setting the stage for greater global market access, sustainable partnerships, and a stronger footprint for India in international trade.