Industry to Position India as Global Hub for Sports Goods Manufacturing

The 4th edition of the India Sporting Goods Fair (ISGF) 2026 opened with a strong focus on transforming India into a global hub for sports goods manufacturing, exports and trade.

Addressing exhibitors, international buyers and stakeholders, Secretary (Sports), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Hari Ranjan Rao, stated, “This is a golden period in the growth trajectory of India’s sports goods industry.”

Outlining an ambitious national vision, Rao highlighted that India aims to scale sports goods exports from approximately ₹3,000 crore to ₹80,000 crore.

Emphasising the scale of transformation required, he said, “If we have to move from ₹3,000 crore to ₹80,000 crore, every manufacturer will have to multiply their scale nearly 25 times. If you do not dream big, you will not be able to achieve it.”

Manufacturers were urged to scale aggressively, expand globally and adopt a forward-looking approach driven by innovation and investment, with special emphasis on the role of youth and next-generation entrepreneurs in leading this expansion.

“We would also like to see many more new manufacturers entering the sports manufacturing sector. The industry should actively explore joint ventures and international collaborations, and the Ministry will be happy to support such partnerships,” the Secretary (Sports) said.

Addressing the gathering, Joint Secretary (Sports), Vineel Krishna, highlighted the Government’s broader vision and stated, “The Government is very ambitious about expanding the sports goods manufacturing sector, not only to meet domestic demand but also to enhance India’s global export potential.”(updated on 31st march 2026)