Guwahati, Jan 17: The Northeast region of India is rapidly emerging as a powerhouse in the direct selling industry, with Assam leading the charge. Guwahati, the gateway to the Northeast, is gearing up to host the 2nd Edition of the IDSA Northeast Direct Selling Conference and Expo on January 21, 2025, promising to be a hub of innovation, discussions, and transformative ideas for the industry.
This landmark event, organized by the Indian Direct Selling Association (IDSA), will bring together government officials, industry leaders, policymakers, academics, and social activists to deliberate on key issues shaping the sector. Topics like industry growth, regulatory reforms, consumer awareness, and the empowerment of women and youth through direct selling will take centre stage.
The conference will also celebrate entrepreneurial achievements in the region, particularly recognizing women entrepreneurs who have excelled in direct selling. Complementing the discussions will be a vibrant exhibition showcasing the latest products, services, and innovations by IDSA member companies. One of the event’s highlights is a unique product ramp walk, where models in traditional Northeast attire will showcase the fusion of local culture and direct selling innovations.
A Booming Industry
India’s direct selling industry is on a robust growth trajectory, with a market size surpassing ₹21,282 crore, placing the country 11th globally. The industry has recorded a 12% growth rate in 2022–23 and maintains a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 8%. It supports 86 lakh individuals, including 32 lakh women, emphasizing its role as a catalyst for socio-economic transformation.
The Northeast contributes significantly to this growth, with a market share of 8.7%, translating to over ₹1,800 crore in revenue and 4.2 lakh direct sellers. Assam, the ninth-largest direct-selling market in India, leads the region with ₹1,009 crore in sales and a 4.7% market share, supported by over 2.4 lakh direct sellers. The contribution of the other seven northeastern states includes Manipur (Rs 288 cr.), Nagaland (Rs 227 cr.), Mizoram (Rs 156 cr.), Arunachal Pradesh (Rs 78 cr.), Tripura (Rs 72 cr.), Meghalaya (Rs 19 cr.), and Sikkim (Rs 5 cr.). The industry contributes over ₹270 crore annually to the region’s state exchequer, reinforcing its role in the Northeast’s development.
The region also generates over ₹270 crore annually in contributions to the state exchequer, underlining its economic impact.
With its unique blend of economic potential and cultural heritage, the Northeast is poised to solidify its role as a key player in India’s direct selling story.
