“EXIM Matters” refers to a comprehensive platform dedicated to providing a wide range of services and resources related to Indian Customs. This platform serves as a one-stop destination for individuals and businesses seeking expertise and assistance in navigating the complexities of export and import regulations, customs clearance, and compliance with Indian Customs laws. In addition to customs-related services, “EXIM Matters” also specializes in Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) services, including the registration and protection of Trademarks, Copyrights, and Patents. 

INDIA–BRAZIL TKDL COLLABORATION

Part 2: What Every MSME, Startup and Exporter Should Know

In Part 1, we discussed how the India–Brazil collaboration on the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) represents more than a partnership between two countries. It marks the emergence of knowledge diplomacy, where traditional knowledge becomes a strategic economic asset.

The obvious question now is:

How does this benefit an MSME or a startup?

The answer lies in understanding that today’s businesses no longer compete only through manufacturing capability. They compete through knowledge, authenticity, sustainability, and trust.

 

1. Better Product Development

Suppose a startup wants to manufacture:

• Herbal cosmetics
• Nutraceuticals
• Ayurvedic formulations
• Plant-based wellness products
• Natural food supplements

One of the first questions should be:

“Has this knowledge already existed for centuries?”

TKDL documents thousands of traditional formulations. Instead of unknowingly reinventing what already exists or worse, infringing existing rights businesses can begin product development with greater confidence and clarity.

 

2. Building Authentic Brands

Consumers today are increasingly asking:

• Where does this product come from?
• Is it authentic?
• Is there a traditional basis behind it?

Documentation backed by recognised traditional knowledge enhances credibility.

In international markets, authenticity itself becomes a premium.

 

3. Protecting Against Future Disputes

Many businesses assume intellectual property begins only after filing a patent.

That is not always true.

Understanding documented traditional knowledge helps businesses avoid investing in products that may later face patent objections or legal disputes.

In simple words,

prevention is far less expensive than litigation.

 

4. Strengthening Export Potential

Export markets increasingly examine:

• Source of biological materials
• Sustainability
• Biodiversity compliance
• Traditional claims
• Product traceability

Businesses that understand these evolving expectations will be better positioned when regulations become stricter.

Tomorrow’s export success will depend not merely on price, but on documented credibility.

 

5. New Opportunities for GI Products

Imagine combining:

• GI protection
• Traditional knowledge
• Modern branding
• Export marketing

Products such as:

• Kumbakonam Betel Leaf
• Erode Turmeric
• Panruti Jackfruit
• Thanjavur Veena

can tell a far richer story when geographical identity is supported by documented traditional knowledge.

Storytelling creates value.

Value creates premium pricing.

 

6. Better Investor Confidence

Today’s investors ask difficult questions.

Is the product unique?

Can competitors easily copy it?

What protects the business model?

Businesses built upon documented traditional knowledge, coupled with innovation and responsible commercialisation, often present stronger long-term value propositions.

 

Looking Ahead

The India–Brazil collaboration should therefore not be viewed as an academic agreement between governments.

It is an early indicator of how global trade is changing.

Countries are beginning to compete not only through manufacturing and technology, but also through knowledge assets, biodiversity, cultural heritage, and responsible innovation.

 

For Indian MSMEs and startups, this represents an opportunity to move beyond being low-cost manufacturers and become creators of high-value, knowledge-driven products.

In our concluding part, we will explore a larger question:

Can India’s traditional knowledge become its next global competitive advantage?