Shruti Suman
Bharat Mart, a proposed warehousing facility by India in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is scheduled to commence operations by 2025. This facility aims to provide a unified platform for Indian exporters to showcase their products, akin to China’s ‘Dragon Mart’. Covering an area of over 100,000 square meters, Bharat Mart will offer a versatile space comprising warehouses, retail outlets, and hospitality units.
Situated in the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) under the management of DP World, the Bharat Mart project will feature retail showrooms, warehouses, offices, and supporting amenities catering to various types of goods, ranging from heavy machinery to perishable items. This integrated setup will ensure that Indian exporters have a convenient and effective platform to exhibit their products and expand their presence in the UAE market.
Abdulla Al Hashmi, Chief Operating Officer of Parks and Zones at DP World GCC, stated, “Bharat Mart is positioned to become a mega-distribution hub supporting the exports of ‘Made in India’ products worldwide,” highlighting its potential benefits for Indian companies seeking to expand into markets such as Africa, Europe, and the US.
Bharat Mart: Digital Platform Integration
A key feature of the Bharat Mart project is the implementation of a digital platform to facilitate global buyers in procuring goods from the facility. This digital platform will streamline transactions and promote trade between Indian exporters and international buyers, offering a convenient and secure channel for exploring and purchasing a wide array of products showcased at Bharat Mart.
Bharat Mart: Significance
The establishment of Bharat Mart carries significant importance as it aligns with the mutual objectives of India and the UAE to strengthen trade relations. Both nations have set a goal to double their non-petroleum trade to $100 billion by 2030, as part of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) initiated last year. Bharat Mart will play a vital role in achieving this target by providing a dedicated platform for Indian exporters to showcase their products and attract international buyers.
The Concept
The concept behind Bharat Mart resembles China’s successful ‘Dragon Mart,’ which has transformed the retail and wholesale trade landscape. By adopting a similar model, India aims to create a hub for its exporters in the UAE, enhancing the visibility and accessibility of Indian products while fostering closer economic ties between the two countries.
Bharat Mart represents an ambitious project set to revolutionize the landscape for Indian exporters in the UAE market. With its comprehensive facilities, digital integration, and strategic location, it is poised to emerge as a thriving center for trade and commerce.
