To encourage international cooperation between various countries and the MSMEs in the country, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises(MSME) is implementing International Cooperation Scheme, said Minister of State for Micro Small and Medium Enterprises, Bhanu Pratap Singh Verma

The scheme is in operation since its inception in 1996.

The Scheme facilitates Indian MSMEs for their participation in international exhibitions, trade fairs, buyer seller meet and for holding international conferences and seminars which are in the interest of MSME sectors. 

The purpose of this scheme is enhancing the competency of MSMEs, capturing new markets for their products, exploring & enhancing exports, exploring new technologies for increasing manufacturing capacity, generation of employment etc.

As per scheme guidelines, financial assistance is provided on reimbursement basis to the State/Central Government organizations, industries/enterprises Associations and registered societies/trusts and organizations associated with promotion and development of MSME sector.

In regard to Gap Analysis, Handholding, Consultancy, etc., component under the scheme was not initiated during FY 2016-17 & 2017-18 under the erstwhile ZED Scheme. Further, the erstwhile ZED Scheme has been renamed as “MSME Sustainable (ZED)”, and its guidelines is under approval stage.