India Aims to Boost Sports Equipment Exports with New Report
NITI Aayog has unveiled a pivotal report titled “Realising the Export Potential of India’s Sports Equipment Manufacturing Sector”, which offers an in-depth examination of India’s manufacturing strengths, global market prospects, and necessary policy changes to establish the country as a formidable competitor in the international sports equipment arena. The report emphasizes a strategic framework aimed at unlocking significant export opportunities while fostering job growth through micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
During the report’s launch, Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, highlighted the crucial link between India’s ambition to become a global manufacturing hub and its capacity to compete on the world stage. He pointed out that the sports equipment sector is especially promising, catalyzed by escalating global demand and a surge of major sporting events over the last decade. Shri Bery underscored the need for elevated quality standards, innovation, and international connections to fortify India’s position.
Dr. Arvind Virmani, a member of NITI Aayog, noted that India’s market share in global sports equipment exports is currently a modest 0.5%, signaling a vast potential for growth and diversification. He urged the government to rationalize import duties on key raw materials and enhance local supply capabilities. He also indicated that policy coordination would be vital in creating a robust manufacturing ecosystem, particularly to take advantage of upcoming global sporting events.
Smt. Nidhi Chhibber, CEO of NITI Aayog, added that the sports equipment sector plays an essential, yet often overlooked, role in India’s manufacturing landscape. She reaffirmed its alignment with national priorities like employment creation and MSME empowerment, emphasizing that technology adoption and improved market access are pivotal for maximizing growth potential.
Global Market Dynamics
The global sports goods market, valued at around $700 billion in 2024, is expected to surpass $1 trillion by 2036. The sports equipment segment alone, accounting for approximately $140 billion, will see significant growth, with global demand anticipated to reach $283 billion by 2036. Current exports in this segment are valued at approximately $52 billion, reflecting steady growth driven by heightened sports participation and increased awareness of fitness.
Indian Manufacturing Landscape
India’s manufacturing capabilities in the sports equipment industry, while modest by global standards, are built on strong foundational strengths. With around $275 million in annual exports, constituting about 0.5% of the global market, the sector is primarily driven by MSMEs, which account for nearly 90% of production. Key manufacturing hubs exist in Jalandhar and Meerut, supported by numerous exporters and micro enterprises.
Challenges to Overcome
The report outlines several structural challenges that hinder the ability to scale exports. These include a significant cost disadvantage, high customs duties on critical materials, and logistical inefficiencies. Furthermore, limited access to advanced manufacturing technologies and a lack of visibility in the global market are identified as critical issues that need addressing.
Strategic Recommendations
A comprehensive roadmap has been proposed to position India as a leading provider of sports equipment globally by 2036. Recommendations include rationalizing raw material import duties, upgrading technology for MSMEs, creating new manufacturing clusters near ports, and establishing shared testing facilities.
Potential for Growth and Employment
If implemented, the suggested initiatives could elevate India’s sports equipment exports from $275 million in 2024 to an estimated $8.1 billion by 2036. This expansion could boost India’s export share significantly while creating approximately 5.4 million jobs, mainly within MSME clusters.
With the prospect of upcoming global events, including aspirations to host the 2036 Olympics, the report identifies a unique opportunity for Indian manufacturers to integrate into global supply chains. The full report can be accessed on the NITI Aayog website.
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