Walmart CEO Calls India a Top Global Commerce Opportunity

Furner said the company is focused on strengthening entrepreneur and supplier capabilities, raising compliance and quality standards, and helping scale manufacturing so more Indian businesses are ready to export.

"This work is expanding economic opportunity and connecting innovative businesses in India with customers around the world," he said during the second edition of the 'Walmart Growth Summit-India 2026' here.

Walmart's 'Vriddhi Supplier Development Programme' announced that it has trained over 115,000 MSMEs across the country since its launch in 2019, equipping them with digital capabilities, critical business skills, and access to new markets.

With plans to support a total of 170,000 MSMEs by 2028, the programme continues to strengthen the pipeline of MSMEs that have the ambition to export to new markets.

At the event, Walmart and Flipkart leaders reinforced the growing role of Indian businesses in global supply chains, and the importance of deepening local partnerships and capacity building efforts.

"At Flipkart Group, we have seen firsthand how technology and digital commerce can unlock opportunities for millions of small businesses, entrepreneurs, artisans, and local communities across India," said Kalyan Krishnamurthy, Group CEO, Flipkart Group.

Through initiatives like Flipkart Samarth and Walmart Vriddhi, "we are helping build capabilities, improve market access, and create pathways for businesses to grow both domestically and globally. Our focus continues to be on building an inclusive and empowering commerce ecosystem for India," he mentioned.

The event drew more than 5,000 registrations, with sellers expressing strong interest in onboarding to the Walmart Marketplace to reach customers in the US and beyond.

The event attracted export-ready businesses, MSMEs, digital-first brands, and supply chain partners to explore growth opportunities across domestic and international markets.

- IANS