The CII research paper “Enhancing State Engagement in India’s Export Mission” examines the greater role that states can play in driving India’s export mission of US$ 1 trillion in goods exports by 2030-31. The paper employs three different and innovative tools in assessing export potential of Indian states and ways in which they can be stepped up significantly. First, the paper examines the current level of merchandise exports at the state level and relates them to seven key parameters across the states including Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), Foreign Direct Investments (FDI), Ease of Doing Business (EoDB), innovation status, port connectivity, healthcare outcomes as proxy for worker productivity, and NITI Aayog’s state Export Performance Index (EPI), to examine the links between state export levels and these parameters. Second, by assigning ranks to different states based on these parameters, the paper identifies the Next-Five emerging states, which have significant potential to perform well, with significant focus from State and Central Governments. Further, the paper undertakes an analytical exercise to estimate India’s potential exports in 2030-31, if all Indian states were to step up their export performance. It is estimated that with full state participation, India’s potential exports could increase to US$ 1.63 trillion, thereby achieving the national export target. The paper presents several policy recommendations in critical areas of importance, where states can be supported to boost export activity. The paper also includes a special section focusing on the North-Eastern states, which highlights specific actions that can be undertaken to address the challenges faced by the region.