Varanasi exporters are preparing to expand into Russia-Central Asia, UK, Europe, West Asia and MENA markets to reduce dependence on single or limited countries. The focus will be on Banarasi silk, handloom, handicrafts and food products.
Varanasi: Amid the changing situation in global trade, exporters from Varanasi are preparing to expand their business to new international markets. The Federation of Indian Exporters (FIEO) has emphasized on exploring possibilities in the markets of Russia, Central Asia, Britain, Europe, West Asia and Middle-East and North Africa to reduce dependence on one or limited number of countries.
Looking for new opportunities in Russia and Central Asia
Banarasi silk, handloom, handicrafts, carpets, home textiles and value-added food products play an important role in the export business of Varanasi. FIEO believes that there is a need to prepare an export strategy for these products according to the demand and market needs of different countries.
In the markets of Russia and Central Asia, countries like Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan and Armenia are being seen as potential markets. Emphasis is being laid on exploring possibilities for Indian textiles, home furnishing materials, carpets and handicrafts in these countries.
Amid changes in the global trade and transportation system, it is being considered important for exporters to connect with new buyers and create a strong distribution network. This can help in taking the traditional products of Varanasi to new customers.
Business contacts will increase between Britain and Europe
After the India-UK trade agreement came into force from July 15, 2026, the interest of exporters in the UK market has increased. New business opportunities are being explored in Britain for Varanasi's silk, handloom, carpet and geographical indication products.
Apart from Britain, there is also a need to increase direct business contacts with foreign buyers in European markets like Germany, France, Netherlands, Italy and Spain. The emphasis is on the exporters to formulate strategies in line with product quality, market demand and requirements of the respective countries.
Preparations for expansion in Gulf and West Asia
Market expansion plans may also include Egypt, Morocco and Jordan along with UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain. A strategy to transport Varanasi products to other Gulf countries by using the UAE as a regional trade and re-export hub is also being considered.
Oman is being seen as an example of an emerging market for food products. The first consignment of 40 metric tonnes of biscuits was sent from Varanasi to Oman in June 2026. FIEO is seeing this as an example of new market potential for Varanasi's processed food products.
Market will be decided according to the product
According to FIEO, attention can be paid to the markets of Britain, Europe, UAE, Saudi Arabia and Russia-Central Asia for silk sarees and fashion garments. Possibilities can be explored in Europe and Gulf countries for home textiles and handicrafts.
The markets of Britain, Europe, Russia-Central Asia and West Asia can be important for carpet. Whereas for processed food products, Gulf countries, Oman, Britain and select European markets can be targeted.
The strategy aims to expand Varanasi's export business to more diverse markets and reduce dependence on any one or limited number of markets.