India wants more market access in China to bridge trade gap

The government today said it is pursuing market access issues with China for Indian products, a move which will help in bridging the rising trade deficit.

In 2010-11, India's exports to China stood at USD 19.61 billion, while imports were USD 43.47 billion, leaving a trade deficit of USD 23.86 billion.

"We are also pursuing market access issues to tackle non-tariff barriers in the Chinese market at different fora," Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jyotiraditya Scindia said in a written reply to Lok Sabha.

He said that Indian exporters are encouraged to participate in major trade fairs in China to show-case their products and increase engagement with Chinese companies.

"Participation of Indian exporters in trade fairs educates the Chinese importers about niche Indian products. Business to Business relations are encouraged through schemes such Market Access Initiative/ Market Development Assistance," he said.