Mumbai — On 17 February 2026, the Indian Economic Trade Organization (IETO) and the Retailers Association of India (RAI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding at the Jio Convention Centre in Mumbai, marking a notable development in India’s efforts to elevate its retail sector on the global stage. The ceremony brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and retail stakeholders in a formal setting that highlighted the country’s growing interest in international retail engagement.
The Retailers Association of India, as the vocal representative of India’s organized retail industry with over 17,000 retailers across the country.It has been instrumental in supporting sector growth through policy engagement, networking, and capacity building within the domestic market. With India’s retail landscape projected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by rising incomes, expanding middle-class demand, and accelerating digitization, many Indian retail brands are now exploring opportunities beyond their home market.
The MoU between IETO and RAI sets a practical foundation for Indian retail businesses to engage with markets across the UAE and GCC, Europe and the UK, Africa, ASEAN and Southeast Asia, Latin America, and North America.
Indian retail brands have demonstrated competitiveness across a range of segments — including fashion and apparel, food and beverage, wellness and beauty products, home and lifestyle goods, and technology-enabled consumer services. These sectors, representing some of the fastest-growing categories within India’s domestic retail growth story, are well positioned to benefit from coordinated international expansion initiatives. Indian fashion and lifestyle brands, for example, have already begun to explore overseas markets, and demand for Indian handcrafted textiles, speciality foods, and curated consumer products is strengthening globally.
The MoU addresses needs by offering structured support, enabling Indian retailers to assess opportunities with confidence and plan for sustainable growth in foreign markets. It also reflects the broader evolution of India’s retail industry, which continues to expand through improved supply chains, digital integration, and stronger brand positioning.
By signing this MoU, IETO and RAI focused on a shared commitment to connecting domestic retail capabilities with international opportunities. The initiative supports India’s broader economic ambitions by creating pathways for responsible and well-prepared global expansion. As the Indian retail sector continues its rapid evolution, such collaborative frameworks will remain essential in supporting the international aspirations of Indian retailers seeking to extend their reach across international markets.
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