In view of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2017, a 15-member delegation from the state was in Singapore recently to network and strengthen links with local businesses.
Mr Ashwani Kumar, Secretary to Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, led the delegation which met representatives of the Government, various industry leaders and academics.
The delegates discussed some of the investor-friendly policies, the favourable economic ecosystem and seamless approval procedures that Gujarat offers, making it one of the most sought after investment destinations.
Gujarat was ranked the No 1 Indian state in ease of doing business last year in a joint study by the Indian government and the World Bank.
The key focus sectors of the delegation, which was in Singapore from Oct 8 to Oct 13, were Electronics Manufacturing, Financial Services and Smart City Development.
Mr Ashwani Kumar said: "We view this as a good opportunity to tap the synergies between the nations and foster closer economic, trade and investment relations between India and Singapore."
A roadshow was held on Oct 12 at the Ritz Carlton Hotel to promote Vibrant Gujarat 2017 which is scheduled for January, with the theme of Connecting India to World.
It was organised by the Institute of South Asian Studies (ISAS) and The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry.
The event was supported by the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF).
Ambassador Gopinath Pillai, chairman of ISAS, in his opening address said the summit marks one of the earliest external outreach programmes by an Indian state for connecting to a global audience of investors, entrepreneurs and businesses.
Over the years, it has become an important platform for showcasing the state of Gujarat's strengths in infrastructure, business and human resources.
In his address Mr Douglas Foo, president of SMF declared that personally, Gujarat holds a special significance for him as he started his first business in Gujarat and from the experience he gained, he has leveraged on Gujarat's connections for his business even now.
He announced that SMF will be arranging a business mission to Gujarat in January 2017, in support of the annual summit.
The High Commissioner of India to Singapore, Mrs Vijay Thakur Singh, in her address, said "With the reform-driven government at the Centre led by ... Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is on a path of strong economic growth and transformation.
I would therefore impress upon the businesses and industry in Singapore to join the growth story being witnessed in India and Gujarat in particular and reap the dividends sooner rather than later."
George Abraham is the Regional Representative of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry.
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