Mumbai became the focus of global trade watchdogs and economic community as the World Trade Centre Mumbai and the All-India Association of Industries (AIAI) hosted the 10th Global Economic Summit (GES) and WTCA Asia Pacific Conference on November 21st and 22nd bringing ministers, policymakers, diplomatic community, international delegates and business executive together at a platform to boost international trade and strategic economic opportunities.
“Government of Maharashtra has undertaken various initiatives in shaping the policies for the Economic Development of Maharashtra and to achieve one trillion-dollar economy by 2027. The vision of our Chief Minister is to engage with all the stakeholders concerned with the development of economy, employment and exports”, said Ms. Pankaja Munde, Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Animal Husbandry, Government of Maharashtra, while listing the various efforts of the State Government in laying down the policy priorities with regard to sustainability, renewable and clean energy for better environment, leading towards the sustainable growth of Maharashtra, at the 10th Global Economic Summit and WTCA Asia Pacific Conference.
“Maharashtra receives the highest FDI investment and is foremost in sectors like agro and agro products, manufacturing, Engineering, IT and ITeS and has always laid thrust on development of Startups, MSMEs and clusters for development thereby creating conducive environment for economic growth” stressed Ms. Munde.
Mr. Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of Maharashtra, said that we can only achieve self-reliance by skilling our young talents and integrating them with the workforce, enhancing economic productivity. We need to dedicate ourselves to boosting international trade and cooperation by adopting various newer technologies and upgrading our production lines through innovative practices. He also said the Maharashtra Government is moving towards creating a better environment and laying a red carpet for foreign investors by offering what they need and making a conducive policy to attract and make Maharashtra a favoured destination for investment.
Mr. Rahul Narwekar, Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, accorded the same sentiments, extolling the presence of the business and diplomatic community participating in good numbers in the Global Economic Summit and said Maharashtra is business-friendly state and they are always ready with open heart and engage themselves for development, and to make it possible have created a very conducive infrastructure and environment for people to look at Maharashtra seriously for service and manufacturing and house them here to achieve the vision of Maharashtra.
Mr. Ameet Satam, Mumbai BJP Chief, said, “Maharashtra, being the economic and commercial capital of India, would always like to woo investors with open arms. The city offers not only excellent environment but also skilled talents to meet the need of those doing business”. He further said that law and order and infrastructure are the foremost tasks, under the leadership of Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, who has laid thrust on building critical infrastructure projects like the coastal road, metro network, and new airports. This shows how the development of infrastructure in Maharashtra is the priority of the government.
Expressing his gratitude to all the distinguished guests present, Dr. Vijay Kalantri, Chairman, World Trade Centre Mumbai and President, All India Association of Industries (AIAI), highlighted the significance of the summit theme considering the changing global environment. Dr. Kalantri outlined that the summit is host to over 500 delegates from more than 35 countries, over 5000 B2B meetings, thereby making it a platform for business and commercial engagement. Reiterating the strong and unwavering commitment of the World Trade Centre, Mumbai, and All India Association of Industries in supporting MSMEs, start-ups, and women entrepreneurs, he said that the 10th Global Economic Summit believes in connecting businesses, supporting innovations, and joint collaboration amongst the business community. He also underscored the distinction of the World Trade Centre, Mumbai, in being a pioneer organization established for peace and prosperity through promoting cross-border trade.
Mr. Sharad Upasani, Vice Chairman, World Trade Centre Mumbai, and Capt. Somesh Batra, Vice Chairman, World Trade Centre Mumbai, expressed gratitude to all the distinguished guests, delegates, and participants for turning out in large numbers and expressed confidence that the delegates will take maximum benefits from this summit.
The event also marked a significant milestone with over 30 MoUs signed between World Trade Centres from various countries amongst themselves and with World Trade Centre, Mumbai, and All-India Association of Industries (AIAI), creating a powerful global network aimed at accelerating trade, investment, and long-term partnerships. With 500-plus delegates from over 35 countries, the summit also featured targeted B2B meetings with delegations from Malaysia, Argentina, Sri Lanka, Iran, South Africa, and Bangladesh, opening doors for cross-border alliances and new business opportunities. These B2B meetings also served as platforms for entrepreneurs and startups to come together and use the platform for growth and engagement.
Overall, the multi-event gathering at WTC Mumbai stood out as a vibrant catalyst for global cooperation, reinforcing Mumbai’s position as a hub for international trade, innovation, and partnership-driven growth.