The Indian export sector is on a dream run with export figures in the month of June 2010 marking the fifth consecutive month of a rise in exports by more than 30%. Significantly, some of the most SME-concentrated sectors such as engineering, gems and jewellery, chemicals and pharma, among others are the chief contributors to this growth.

“There has definitely been a rise in exports in the gems and jewellery sector which is riding high on diamond exports. The sector is doing quite well in places such as Hong Kong and Dubai which have become two of our biggest markets over the last few months,” said Cyril Alfred, assistant manager at the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC).

This development holds immense significance for Indian SMEs because it reflects the hard work they had put into increasing exports even with the Eurozone crisis looming in the background.

“Exports since the past few months have been satisfactory. The gradual revival of the US economy is helping our exports a lot. However, small exporters like us are looking for newer markets in the European Union in the wake of the financial crisis in Europe,” said Kunal Thakker, director of Roopa Engineers, a small-sized unit in Ahmedabad which manufactures and exports textile machinery.

Even as export-based SMEs strive to cope with their numerous issues involving financing and production, the rise in export figures is sure to boost their morale.

Sreemita Bhattacharya