Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced on Saturday that the government will establish modern testing facilities across toy manufacturing clusters to help Indian manufacturers meet global quality standards and expand exports. Speaking at the 17th Toy Biz International B2B Exhibition 2026 in New Delhi, Goyal outlined a roadmap to strengthen India's position in the USD 120-billion global toy market.
Testing facilities to be set up through BIS and National Test House
The facilities will be developed through the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), National Test House, and other government and semi-government laboratories. Goyal urged the industry to identify the testing equipment required to ensure Indian-made toys meet the highest quality standards for both domestic and international markets. "The Government would establish modern testing facilities across toy manufacturing clusters in the country," the minister said, adding that manufacturers should prepare a wish list of testing equipment to facilitate quality certification.
Leverage FTAs to tap developed markets
Goyal called on toy manufacturers to leverage India's expanding network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to access developed markets and build globally recognised Indian toy brands. He highlighted that duty-free access across Europe and the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, set to become operational on July 15, present significant opportunities for exporters.
Adopt advanced manufacturing technologies
The minister also urged manufacturers to adopt advanced technologies, including Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD-CAM) systems and CNC machining. He said technological upgradation would improve product quality, precision, and production efficiency, enabling Indian companies to compete more effectively in global markets.
Export Promotion Mission and overseas expansion
To support overseas expansion, Goyal assured the industry of assistance under the Export Promotion Mission. He encouraged companies to participate in international trade exhibitions, establish warehousing facilities abroad, and engage directly with global brands, retailers, and e-commerce platforms.
Invest in domestic supply chain for motors, electronics, dies, and moulds
Emphasising sustainable growth, Goyal called for greater investment in domestic capabilities for motors, electronics, dies, and moulds used in toy manufacturing. He said a self-reliant supply chain would improve competitiveness while reducing costs.
Exports up 239%, imports down 32% over four years
Highlighting the sector's recent performance, Goyal said toy exports have grown by 239 per cent over the past four years, while imports have declined by 32 per cent, reflecting the impact of the Make in India initiative and the National Toy Action Plan. He noted that while only around 12 per cent of the Indian toy market was earlier served by domestically manufactured toys, imports now account for only about Rs 2,500-3,000 crore in an approximately Rs 18,000 crore market, with the remaining demand being met by Indian manufacturers.
Over 50 toy clusters and 21,000 MSMEs engaged
Goyal said more than 50 toy clusters have been established across the country, with nearly 21,000 MSMEs engaged in toy manufacturing. Calling on the industry to sustain the momentum, he urged manufacturers to aspire for tenfold growth through improved quality, branding, innovation, and exports.
