Introduction
Tamil Nadu has secured the first rank in NITI Aayog's Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2026, released on 8 August 2026, for the third consecutive year. The index evaluates states and union territories on their export ecosystem, policy framework, infrastructure, business environment, and export performance. Tamil Nadu's consistent top ranking reflects its diversified export base, strong port infrastructure, and proactive export promotion policies.
EPI 2026 Rankings — Top 5 States
- Tamil Nadu — Score: 82.4 (Rank 1 for third year running)
- Maharashtra — Score: 79.8
- Gujarat — Score: 78.5
- Karnataka — Score: 76.3
- Andhra Pradesh — Score: 74.1
Four Pillars of EPI Assessment
- Policy: Export promotion policy, single-window clearances, sector-specific strategies
- Business Ecosystem: Ease of doing business, access to credit, tax incentives
- Infrastructure: Ports, logistics, connectivity, SEZs and industrial parks
- Export Performance: Export growth, product diversification, market reach
Tamil Nadu's Export Profile
- Major exports: Textiles and apparel (₹1.42 lakh crore), automobiles and components (₹1.28 lakh crore), engineering goods (₹92,000 crore), pharmaceuticals (₹48,000 crore), leather and leather goods (₹36,000 crore), IT/ITeS services (₹1.8 lakh crore)
- Key ports: Chennai Port Trust (ChPT), Kamarajar Port (Ennore), V.O. Chidambaranar Port (Thoothukudi), Kattupalli Port (private — Adani)
- Export growth FY26: 14.3% (highest among major states)
- Top export destinations: USA, UAE, Germany, China, United Kingdom, Singapore
Key TNPSC Facts
- NITI Aayog: National Institution for Transforming India, established 1 January 2015 replacing Planning Commission
- NITI Aayog CEO: B.V.R. Subrahmanyam
- NITI Aayog Vice Chairman: Dr. Suman Bery
- EPI published by: NITI Aayog, in partnership with the Institute for Competitiveness
- Tamil Nadu EPI 2026 rank: 1st (82.4/100 score)
- Consecutive ranks: 2024 — 1st; 2025 — 1st; 2026 — 1st
- V.O. Chidambaranar Port: Thoothukudi (previously Tuticorin Port; renamed 2011)
Exam Perspective
For TNPSC aspirants: Tamil Nadu's three consecutive first ranks in EPI (2024, 2025, 2026). The four pillars of assessment (Policy, Business Ecosystem, Infrastructure, Export Performance). NITI Aayog formation date: 1 Jan 2015, replaced Planning Commission. VOC Port = V.O. Chidambaranar Port at Thoothukudi (renamed from Tuticorin in 2011). Tamil Nadu's major exports — textiles, auto, engineering, pharma, leather, IT. Score: 82.4.
Conclusion
Tamil Nadu's third consecutive top rank in the Export Preparedness Index validates the state's long-term focus on industrial development, port infrastructure, and export-friendly policies. As the state moves toward its USD 1.5 trillion economy target by 2036, sustained export growth will be a critical driver of employment, foreign exchange earnings, and overall economic prosperity.