GOVT EXPANDS RELIEF SCHEME TO SUPPORT EXPORTERS AMID WEST ASIA DISRUPTIONS
New Delhi, Apr 18, 2026 : The government has expanded the scope of its RELIEF (Resilience & Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation) scheme to support exporters facing disruptions due to the evolving geopolitical situation in West Asia, adding Egypt and Jordan to the list of eligible destinations.
The move comes amid continued challenges in maritime logistics across the Gulf region, including rising freight costs, higher insurance premiums and increased risks linked to ongoing tensions.
Launched on March 19, 2026 under the Export Promotion Mission, the RELIEF scheme is a time-bound initiative aimed at assisting Indian exporters—particularly MSMEs—affected by supply chain disruptions. It provides support across the export cycle, covering both completed and upcoming shipments impacted during the disruption period.
The scheme is being implemented through the Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC), which acts as the nodal agency. It offers insurance support, facilitates coverage for new shipments and provides reimbursement assistance to eligible MSME exporters dealing with elevated freight and insurance costs.
With the latest expansion, shipments to Egypt and Jordan, including those routed through transshipment hubs, will now be eligible for assistance under the scheme.
The government has also clarified provisions related to insurance support under the scheme. Exporters taking a fresh ECGC Whole Turnover Policy on or after March 16, 2026, will now be eligible for benefits under the relevant component, a move aimed at widening participation, especially among new policyholders.
The Ministry of Commerce & Industry said the measures reflect the government’s ongoing assessment of global trade conditions and its effort to respond swiftly to emerging challenges. The expansion is expected to strengthen export resilience, sustain trade flows and support Indian businesses navigating uncertainty in the West Asia and North Africa corridor.