Kerala has improved its ranking to 11th among all Indian states in the NITI Aayog’s Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024, published this week. Previously ranked 19th in 2022, Kerala scored 44.03 points and entered the challenger category. Maharashtra tops the list with a score of 68.01. The index considers export policies, business environment, infrastructure quality, and export results. Kerala saw a remarkable export growth of 86.9% year-on-year in the last financial year. Exports reached ₹68,375 crore, highlighting the state's growing strength in global markets. Kerala’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) for 2023-24 was ₹11.1 lakh crore. The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector showed strong growth of 97.7% over the previous year, showing a booming entrepreneurial scene. Kerala’s exports cover petroleum products, spices, marine products, coir, and IT services. Petroleum products make up nearly 48% of merchandise exports, totaling ₹32,635 crore driven mainly by Kochi refinery. Kerala exports to over 100 countries, especially in West Asia, helped by its large diaspora. The state ranks high in Ease of Doing Business, supported by digital platforms like K-SWIFT and K-CIS. Investor-friendly laws such as the Kerala Investment Promotion and Facilitation Act and MSME Facilitation Act help clearances and reduce compliance burdens. The report points out challenges like limited industrial land due to population density, small plots, and strict land rules. High costs and local opposition complicate land acquisition. It highlights a need to improve cold chains, modern packhouses, and spice sterilization units to cut post-harvest losses and meet global standards. Better logistics through Cochin and Vizhinjam ports, and air cargo improvements at Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kannur airports will boost export reach for perishable goods. The report warns Kerala must focus on talent retention, R&D, and innovation to sustain industrial growth and export competitiveness long term.