FICCI : Industry's Voice for Policy Change

Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), organized ‘GLOBIZ-Connecting Business Globally’ from 21st Feb to 3rd March, with a vision to support Indian exporters and manufacturers from textiles, home furnishing, healthcare, pharmaceutical and other key sectors to globally reach out to new markets.

The virtual series of multi sector events focused on countries like Africa, Eurasia, ASEAN, Arabia and Pacific alliance regions. The objective was to provide a user friendly, technologically driven platform to Indian exporters and manufactures, ensuring quality interactions with buyers and offering real-time experience of the exhibition. This largest multi-sector event was supported by Ministry of Commerce & Industry and Ministry of External Affairs, Govt of India.

The 9-day virtual exhibition saw participation from over 250+ Indian companies from different prominent sectors and over 1500+ buyers from Eurasia, Pacific alliance Philippines, Vietnam, Arabia, Africa and many other countries with total 6000+ registered visitors.

Key highlights of the sessions:

India- ASEAN Healthcare Expo: The 3-days exhibition 22-24 Feb’ kickstarted with the inaugural session ‘India – ASEAN Healthcare Expo’ followed by panel discussion on ‘The New Era of Partnership in Healthcare: Telemedicine, Health Techs, Medical Devices, Pharmaceuticals and affordable healthcare services” on 22nd February 2021.

Mr Anant Swarup, Joint Secretary, FT (ASEAN), Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India inaugurated the exhibition and shared that ASEAN is the central pillar of India’s Act East Policy and lot of collaboration opportunities exist between India and ASEAN. He also emphasised that India is looking to collaborate with ASEAN under Project Development Fund and is currently working on development of Multi-speciality hospitals in Cambodia and Myanmar.

Namaskar Arabia: Addressing the inaugural edition of Namaskar Arabia on 23rd Feb, the MEA Secretary said that both India and the Arab region are engaged in improvements and transformational changes in the economy, and the goodwill between the people provides great potential to take the economic engagement to a higher level.

Amb Bhattacharya said, “We are currently engaged in an era of transformation on both sides that helps us engage more deeply with each other. From a buyer-seller relationship we have developed a long-term strategic relationship, not only in oil and gas, but also in upstream and downstream investments.”

2nd Edition of Namaskar Eurasia Expo (Focus Uzbekistan)

Mr Manish Prabhat, Ambassador of India to Uzbekistan during the inaugural ceremony of ‘Namaskar Eurasia Expo’ on 24th Feb said that air corridors would play a critical role in deepening economic relations between India and Central Asian economies. FICCI has been instrumental in promoting a dialogue between key stakeholders and stands to play a pivotal role in actuating the corridors in the times to come.”

Namaskar Pacific Alliance

Mr Suresh Kumar, Joint Secretary- LAC, Ministry of Commerce, Govt of India during the inaugural ceremony on 1st March said, “India’s trade with the Pacific Alliance group has the potential to touch USD 30 billion in short span of time. He highlighted that the bilateral discussions and trade negotiations with Mexico and Colombia could lead to similar trade agreements that India has with Chile.”

Namaskar Africa

Mr Rahul Chhabra, Secretary-Economic Relations, Ministry of External Affairs, Govt of India during the inaugural ceremony of Namaskar Africa on 1st March said that the CFTA signals a great opportunity for Indian businesses for partnering with African counterparts to deepen their integration and accelerate their development.

“We do not have a donor-recipient relationship with Africa but consider our partner countries as development partners,” he said. “Out of 54 African countries we have Indian projects operating in 48 African countries with 75 projects worth USD 13 billion. This is the size of our commitment to the African Continent,” said the Secretary.

“We want to be forward-looking and forward-thinking to see how the partner countries can benefit from our collaborations,” said the MEA Secretary.

Dr Srikar Reddy, Joint Secretary, FT-AFRICA, Department of Commerce, Govt of India said, Africa looks at India as an opportunity for trade and investment, collaborations in new emerging technologies, especially in ICT, Consultancy, fin-tech, logistics, EdTech, health tech, and others. He also mentioned that the recovery of the global economy will largely depend on the effectiveness of vaccination efforts. Dr Reddy stated that India and Africa are connected by a historical association that has blossomed into a multifaced partnership with an emphasis on economic cooperation and human resource development. He further added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made Africa a priority for India’s foreign and economic policy.

HE Dr Daniel Peter Othol, The Dean of the African Group of Heads of Missions in India & Ambassador of South Sudan said the relationship between India and Africa must be augmented to the level that will benefit Africa.

“We want India to mechanize the African agriculture, to build our social and physical infrastructure and the health and educational needs especially during the era of COVID-19. He further stated that there is an urgent need to boost the immunity of the population of Africa, therefore Africa is looking at India for vaccines,” he said.

Ten News | Feb 19, 2021

India & Singapore Should Invoke 3Bs- Buddhism, Bollywood, Business, To Make It The Defining Partnership Of This Century: Piyush Goyal

Addressing the 2nd Meeting of India-Singapore CEOs Forum’, organized by FICCI, jointly with DPIIT, Govt of India, Mr Piyush Goyal, Minister of Railways and Commerce and Industry, Govt of India highlighted three Bs- Buddhism, Bollywood and Business, for enhancing India-Singapore relations.

Mr Goyal also emphasized on creating a forum for women entrepreneurs, for both India and Singapore for sharing of experiences and success stories. He also stressed on education and skill development being key pillars for strengthening India- Singapore ties.

Mr S Iswaran, Minister for Communications and Information & Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations, Govt of Singapore urged for a greater engagement between the businesses on both sides. He emphasized on 3Ds- Development, Diversification and Digital Economy for building a partnership that will benefit the two economies.

Mr Uday Shankar, President, FICCI said that India-Singapore enjoys multifaceted strategic relations and both nations are supporting each other in the endeavour to reinvigorate multilateralism.

Mr Harshavardhan Neotia, Co-Chair, India-Singapore CEO Forum, Past President, FICCI and Chairman, Ambuja Neotia Group said that the Forum will focus on two working groups, viz., Innovative technologies and Advanced Manufacturing. It would cover the aspects of women empowerment in business, education and skills, in these areas. He also emphasised facilitating collaboration in Artificial Intelligence, IoT, blockchain and Big Data, Advanced manufacturing, Infrastructure Financing, e-Commerce, and Healthcare.

Mr Gautam Banerjee, Co-Chair, India-Singapore CEO Forum, Senior Managing Director and Chairman, Blackstone Singapore said, “In January 1994, the then Singapore Prime Minister, Mr Goh Chok Tong started a ‘mild India fever’ with his visit to India with a group of Singapore businessmen. Since that historical visit not only has bilateral trade and investment between the two countries grown significantly but the level of knowledge, confidence, and desire of businesses from both countries to invest and operate in each other’s territories has grown at a healthy pace. The India-Singapore CEOs Forum will help identify new areas of cooperation, investment and partnership between businesses of both countries.”

The members of India- Singapore CEOs Forum also agreed to work towards resolving regulatory issues and processes affecting bilateral trade and investment between the two countries.

Co-Chairs Mr Neotia and Mr Banerjee presented a Joint Intention document with proposals for collaboration to Mr Piyush Goyal, Minister of Railways and Commerce and Industry, Government of India and Mr S Iswaran, Minister for Communications and Information & Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations, Government of Singapore

NDTV | Feb 19, 2021

Singapore-India ties can expand through people to people engagement: Piyush Goyal

Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday delivered the keynote address at India-Singapore CEO Forum and inviting businesses from both sides to bring in sparkle into India and Singapore's partnership, he said that "ours is a strong and productive partnership, which can be taken to higher levels."

The minister said that it is a partnership that will help us become Aatmanirbhar and also give opportunities for us to expand our global footprint.

Union Minister of Railways; Commerce and Industry; Consumer Affairs and Food and Public Distribution Mr Goyal urged businesses to look at ways how we can expand the engagement and encourage India's youth to use more innovative technologies.

He said India and Singapore are working together in cyber security and disaster relief, and education and skill development can be taken up as pillars where we can work together and learn from Singapore's experience.

"E-Commerce, Fintech, smart manufacturing, healthcare are significant areas where India offers a large market. Our working together in these areas can truly transform India's own effort to give the best to our people," he said.

Mr Goyal quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi as saying, "Singapore is our spring board to the ASEAN region".

Mr Goyal expressed the belief that the new regional order that will emerge, will rest on the strong shoulders of Singapore and India.

He said that through budget 2021-22 and various other measures, Prime Minister has been trying to prepare the country to engage with the world from a position of strength, in the next decade.

Similarly, the Singapore budget also this year has focused a lot on transformation and innovation.

He expressed happiness that Singapore and the GIFT city which is our first operational smart city, have tied up with the Singapore exchange to boost international investment in India.

The minister said that he looks at expanding the Singapore-India ties resting on a greater degree of people-to-people engagement and that can rest on three B's: - Buddhism, Bollywood and Business.

Mr Goyal added, "Our women entrepreneurs have done us proud, and the huge potential in this area can be expanded to improve India and Singapore's relationship."

ANI News | Feb 18, 2021

Singapore-India ties can expand on basis of greater degree of people to people engagement: Piyush Goyal

United News of India | Feb 18, 2021

Goyal calls for expanded B2B ties with Singapore

SME Times | Feb 18, 2021

'Singapore-India ties can expand via greater people to people engagement'

Singapore-India ties can expand on the basis of greater degree of people to people engagement, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday.

Goyal, who's the Minister of Railways, Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution, was delivering the keynote address at the India-Singapore CEO Forum.

According to Goyal, "Buddhism, Bollywood and Business" can help cement the partnership between the two nations.

He urged businesses to look at ways to expand the engagement and encourage India's youth to use more innovative technologies.

Besides, the minister said that e-commerce, fintech, smart manufacturing, healthcare are the significant areas where India offers a large market.

He cited that India and Singapore are working together in cyber security and disaster relief, while education and skill development can also be taken up using Singapore's experience.

Goyal expressed the belief that the new regional order will rest on the 'strong shoulders' of Singapore and India.

In addition, he said that through Budget 2021-22 and various other measures, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been trying to prepare the country to engage with the world from a position of strength in the next decade.

Devdiscourse | Feb 18, 2021

Buddhism, bollywood, business can expand people-to-people engagement between India, Singapore: Goyal

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said three 'Bs' - Buddhism, Bollywood and Business - can help expand people to people engagement and strengthen economic ties between India and Singapore.

He said education and skill development can be taken up as pillars where both the sides can work together and learn from Singapore's experience.

''I look at expanding the Singapore-India ties resting on a greater degree of people-to-people engagement and I think that can rest on 3 'Bs'. The 3 'Bs' that I think can expand our people to people engagement are - Budhism, Bollywood and Business,'' he said while addressing India-Singapore CEO Forum.

He added that in the post-COVID period, ''I would like to invite all of you and experience Buddhism, enjoy bollywood and engage in business in India''.

The minister also suggested two areas for enhancing cooperation and that includes ways to promote women entrepreneurship.

''Can we look at that engagement being taken forward to help us understand what Singapore does to promote women entrepreneurs and whether we can pull out a leaf or two from your own experiences,'' he suggested.

Devdiscourse | Feb 18, 2021

Piyush Goyal delivers keynote address at India-Singapore CEO Forum

Minister of Railways; Commerce & Industry; Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution Shri Piyush Goyal today delivered the keynote address at India-Singapore CEO Forum. Inviting businesses from both sides to bring in sparkle into India and Singapore's partnership, he said that ours is a strong & productive partnership, which can be taken to higher levels. The minister said that it is a partnership that will help us become Aatmanirbhar & also give opportunities for us to expand our global footprint.

Shri Goyal urged businesses to look at ways how we can expand the engagement and encourage India's youth to use more innovative technologies. He said India & Singapore are working together in cybersecurity & disaster relief, and Education and skill development can be taken up as pillars where we can work together and learn from Singapore's experience. E-Commerce, Fintech, smart manufacturing, healthcare are significant areas where India offers a large market. He said that our working together in these areas can truly transform India's own effort to give the best to our people.

Shri Goyal quoted Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi as saying that "Singapore is our springboard to the ASEAN region". Shri Goyal expressed the belief that the new regional order that will emerge, will rest on the strong shoulders of Singapore & India. He said that through budget 2021-22 and various other measures, Prime Minister has been trying to prepare the country to engage with the world from a position of strength, in the next decade. Similarly, the Singapore budget also this year has focused a lot on transformation and innovation. He expressed happiness that Singapore and the GIFT city which is our first operational smart city, have tied up with the Singapore exchange to boost international investment in India.

The minister said that he looks at expanding the Singapore-India ties resting on a greater degree of people to people engagement and that can rest on three B's: - Buddhism, Bollywood and Business. He said Our women entrepreneurs have done us proud, and the huge potential in this area can be expanded to improve India & Singapore's relationship.

Bhaskar Live | Feb 18, 2021

'Singapore-India ties can expand via greater people to people engagement'

Singapore-India ties can expand on the basis of greater degree of people to people engagement, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday.

Goyal, who’s the Minister of Railways, Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution, was delivering the keynote address at the India-Singapore CEO Forum.

According to Goyal, “Buddhism, Bollywood and Business” can help cement the partnership between the two nations.

He urged businesses to look at ways to expand the engagement and encourage India’s youth to use more innovative technologies.

Besides, the minister said that e-commerce, fintech, smart manufacturing, healthcare are the significant areas where India offers a large market.

He cited that India and Singapore are working together in cyber security and disaster relief, while education and skill development can also be taken up using Singapore’s experience.

Goyal expressed the belief that the new regional order will rest on the ‘strong shoulders’ of Singapore and India.

Lokmat English | Feb 18, 2021

Singapore-India ties can expand through people to people engagement: Piyush Goyal

Sarkaritel.com | Feb 18, 2021

'Singapore-India ties can expand via greater people to people engagement'

Singapore-India ties can expand on the basis of greater degree of people to people engagement, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday.

Goyal, who’s the Minister of Railways, Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution, was delivering the keynote address at the India-Singapore CEO Forum.

According to Goyal, “Buddhism, Bollywood and Business” can help cement the partnership between the two nations.

He urged businesses to look at ways to expand the engagement and encourage India’s youth to use more innovative technologies.

Besides, the minister said that e-commerce, fintech, smart manufacturing, healthcare are the significant areas where India offers a large market.

He cited that India and Singapore are working together in cyber security and disaster relief, while education and skill development can also be taken up using Singapore’s experience.

Goyal expressed the belief that the new regional order will rest on the ‘strong shoulders’ of Singapore and India.

Can India | Feb 18, 2021

'Singapore-India ties can expand via greater people to people engagement'

Singapore-India ties can expand on the basis of greater degree of people to people engagement, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday.

Goyal, who’s the Minister of Railways, Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution, was delivering the keynote address at the India-Singapore CEO Forum.

According to Goyal, “Buddhism, Bollywood and Business” can help cement the partnership between the two nations.

He urged businesses to look at ways to expand the engagement and encourage India’s youth to use more innovative technologies.

Besides, the minister said that e-commerce, fintech, smart manufacturing, healthcare are the significant areas where India offers a large market.

He cited that India and Singapore are working together in cyber security and disaster relief, while education and skill development can also be taken up using Singapore’s experience.

Goyal expressed the belief that the new regional order will rest on the ‘strong shoulders’ of Singapore and India.

Prokerala | Feb 18, 2021

Singapore-India ties can expand via greater people to people engagement

Singapore-India ties can expand on the basis of greater degree of people to people engagement, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday.

Goyal, who's the Minister of Railways, Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution, was delivering the keynote address at the India-Singapore CEO Forum.

According to Goyal, "Buddhism, Bollywood and Business" can help cement the partnership between the two nations.

He urged businesses to look at ways to expand the engagement and encourage India's youth to use more innovative technologies.

Besides, the minister said that e-commerce, fintech, smart manufacturing, healthcare are the significant areas where India offers a large market.

He cited that India and Singapore are working together in cyber security and disaster relief, while education and skill development can also be taken up using Singapore's experience.

Goyal expressed the belief that the new regional order will rest on the 'strong shoulders' of Singapore and India.

India Education Diary | Feb 18, 2021

Union Minister Piyush Goyal delivers keynote address at India-Singapore CEO Forum

Minister of Railways; Commerce & Industry; Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution Shri Piyush Goyal today delivered the keynote address at India-Singapore CEO Forum. Inviting businesses from both sides to bring in sparkle into India and Singapore’s partnership, he said that ours is a strong & productive partnership, which can be taken to higher levels. The minister said that it is a partnership that will help us become Aatmanirbhar& also give opportunities for us to expand our global footprint.

Shri Goyal urged businesses to look at ways how we can expand the engagement and encourage India’s youth to use more innovative technologies. He said India & Singapore are working together in cyber security & disaster relief, and Education and skill development can be taken up as pillars where we can work together and learn from Singapore’s experience. E-Commerce, Fintech, smart manufacturing, healthcare are significant areas where India offers a large market. He said that our working together in these areas can truly transform India’s own effort to give the best to our people.

Shri Goyal quoted Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi as saying that “Singapore is our spring board to the ASEAN region”. Shri Goyal expressed the belief that the new regional order that will emerge, will rest on the strong shoulders of Singapore & India. He said that through budget 2021-22 and various other measures, Prime Minister has been trying to prepare the country to engage with the world from a position of strength, in the next decade. Similarly, the Singapore budget also this year has focused a lot on transformation and innovation. He expressed happiness that Singapore and the GIFT city which is our first operational smart city, have tied up with the Singapore exchange to boost international investment in India.

The minister said that he looks at expanding the Singapore-India ties resting on greater degree of people to people engagement and that can rest on three B’s: – Buddhism, Bollywood and Business. He said Our women entrepreneurs have done us proud, and the huge potential in this area can be expanded to improve India & Singapore’s relationship.

Latest LY | Feb 18, 2021

India-Singapore CEO Forum: 'Singapore-India ties can expand via greater people to people engagement'says Union Minister Piyush Goyal

India Updates | Feb 18, 2021

'Singapore-India ties can expand via greater people to people engagement'

Singapore-India ties can expand on the basis of greater degree of people to people engagement, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday.

Goyal, who’s the Minister of Railways, Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution, was delivering the keynote address at the India-Singapore CEO Forum.

According to Goyal, “Buddhism, Bollywood and Business” can help cement the partnership between the two nations.

He urged businesses to look at ways to expand the engagement and encourage India’s youth to use more innovative technologies.

Besides, the minister said that e-commerce, fintech, smart manufacturing, healthcare are the significant areas where India offers a large market.

He cited that India and Singapore are working together in cyber security and disaster relief, while education and skill development can also be taken up using Singapore’s experience.

Goyal expressed the belief that the new regional order will rest on the ‘strong shoulders’ of Singapore and India.

sify.com | Feb 18, 2021

'Singapore-India ties can expand via greater people to people engagement'

Singapore-India ties can expand on the basis of greater degree of people to people engagement, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday.

Goyal, who's the Minister of Railways, Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution, was delivering the keynote address at the India-Singapore CEO Forum.

According to Goyal, "Buddhism, Bollywood and Business" can help cement the partnership between the two nations.

He urged businesses to look at ways to expand the engagement and encourage India's youth to use more innovative technologies.

Besides, the minister said that e-commerce, fintech, smart manufacturing, healthcare are the significant areas where India offers a large market.

He cited that India and Singapore are working together in cyber security and disaster relief, while education and skill development can also be taken up using Singapore's experience.

Goyal expressed the belief that the new regional order will rest on the 'strong shoulders' of Singapore and India.

IND News | Feb 18, 2021

'Singapore-India ties can expand via greater people to people engagement'

Singapore-India ties can expand on the basis of greater degree of people to people engagement, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday.

Goyal, who’s the Minister of Railways, Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution, was delivering the keynote address at the India-Singapore CEO Forum.

According to Goyal, “Buddhism, Bollywood and Business” can help cement the partnership between the two nations.

He urged businesses to look at ways to expand the engagement and encourage India’s youth to use more innovative technologies.

Besides, the minister said that e-commerce, fintech, smart manufacturing, healthcare are the significant areas where India offers a large market.

He cited that India and Singapore are working together in cyber security and disaster relief, while education and skill development can also be taken up using Singapore’s experience.

Goyal expressed the belief that the new regional order will rest on the ‘strong shoulders’ of Singapore and India.

Telugu Stop | Feb 18, 2021

'Singapore-India Ties Can Expand Via Greater People To People Engagement'

Singapore-India ties can expand on the basis of greater degree of people to people engagement, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday.

Goyal, who’s the Minister of Railways, Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution, was delivering the keynote address at the India-Singapore CEO Forum.

According to Goyal, “Buddhism, Bollywood and Business” can help cement the partnership between the two nations.

He urged businesses to look at ways to expand the engagement and encourage India’s youth to use more innovative technologies.

Besides, the minister said that e-commerce, fintech, smart manufacturing, healthcare are the significant areas where India offers a large market.

He cited that India and Singapore are working together in cyber security and disaster relief, while education and skill development can also be taken up using Singapore’s experience.

Goyal expressed the belief that the new regional order will rest on the ‘strong shoulders’ of Singapore and India.

newsd | Feb 18, 2021

'Singapore-India ties can expand via greater people to people engagement'

Singapore-India ties can expand on the basis of greater degree of people to people engagement, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday.

Goyal, who’s the Minister of Railways, Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution, was delivering the keynote address at the India-Singapore CEO Forum.

According to Goyal, “Buddhism, Bollywood and Business” can help cement the partnership between the two nations.

He urged businesses to look at ways to expand the engagement and encourage India’s youth to use more innovative technologies.

Besides, the minister said that e-commerce, fintech, smart manufacturing, healthcare are the significant areas where India offers a large market.

He cited that India and Singapore are working together in cyber security and disaster relief, while education and skill development can also be taken up using Singapore’s experience.

Goyal expressed the belief that the new regional order will rest on the ‘strong shoulders’ of Singapore and India.

Ommcom News | Feb 18, 2021

'Singapore-India ties can expand via greater people to people engagement'

Singapore-India ties can expand on the basis of greater degree of people to people engagement, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday.

Goyal, who’s the Minister of Railways, Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution, was delivering the keynote address at the India-Singapore CEO Forum.

According to Goyal, “Buddhism, Bollywood and Business” can help cement the partnership between the two nations.

He urged businesses to look at ways to expand the engagement and encourage India’s youth to use more innovative technologies.

Besides, the minister said that e-commerce, fintech, smart manufacturing, healthcare are the significant areas where India offers a large market.

He cited that India and Singapore are working together in cyber security and disaster relief, while education and skill development can also be taken up using Singapore’s experience.

Goyal expressed the belief that the new regional order will rest on the ‘strong shoulders’ of Singapore and India.

Indiaties | Feb 18, 2021

Piyush Goyal woos Singapore CEOs to invest in India

Union Minister Piyush Goyal today delivered the keynote address at India-Singapore CEO Forum. Inviting businesses from both sides to bring in sparkle into India and Singapore’s partnership, he said that ours is a strong & productive partnership, which can be taken to higher levels. The minister said that it is a partnership that will help us become Aatmanirbhar & also give opportunities for us to expand our global footprint.

The Economic Times | Feb 18, 2021

Goyal invites Singapore to invest in semiconductor manufacturing in India

Commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday invited Singapore’s companies to invest in semiconductor manufacturing in India as the issue is of serious interest to the country. At the FICCI India-Singapore CEO Forum, Goyal said it is a matter of concern that India has to rely on other countries for semiconductors.

“We are extremely keen to have more facilities for chips and wafers and semiconductors because India’s total reliance on other countries for semi conductors is not advisable. It is a matter of concern for the country,” Goyal said.

Goyal also said that e-commerce, fintech, smart manufacturing and healthcare are significant areas where India offers a large market.

On a lighter note, the minister said that Singapore is “losing a very big opportunity by not bidding in the Air India process”.

“I read in the paper. I don’t know what is the reality but I promise you one day I’ll receive a call from you regretting this decision if you’re not bidding for Air India. It’s actually a jewel. If I was not a minister, I would have bid for (it) positively. I respect your decisions,” he said.

Singapore Airlines has reportedly declined to join the Tata Group’s bid for Air India. They have a joint-venture agreement in full-service airline Vistara.

The government is expected to fetch Rs 15,000 crore from the sale of Air India, its subsidiary Air India Express and AISATS - a 50:50 joint venture partnership between Air India and Singapore Airport Terminal Services Limited.

The Hindu Business Line | Feb 18, 2021

India, Singapore can work together in fintech, e-commerce, smart manufacturing: Goyal

Members of India-Singapore CEOs Forum agree to work towards resolving regulatory issues and processes affecting bilateral trade and investment

India and Singapore can work together in areas such as e-commerce, fintech, smart manufacturing and healthcare where the country offers a large market, Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has said.

“Our working together in these areas can truly transform India’s own effort to give the best to our people,” Goyal said at the India-Singapore CEO Forum organised by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and FICCI on Thursday. The India-Singapore CEO Forum was launched in November 2018.

The members of India- Singapore CEOs Forum also agreed to work towards resolving regulatory issues and processes affecting bilateral trade and investment between the two countries, according to a release issued by FICCI.

The Minister said he was looking at expanding Singapore-India ties resting on three Bs - Buddhism, Bollywood and Business.

Bilateral benefit

Singapore’s Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations S Iswaran emphasised on greater engagement between businesses on both sides. He pushed for 3 Ds — Development, Diversification and Digital Economy — for building a partnership that will benefit the two economies.

Singapore and India are already working together in cyber security and disaster relief and education and skill development can be taken up as pillars where India can learn from Singapore’s experience, Goyal said. This is a partnership that will help India to become Aatmanirbhar and also give opportunities to the country for increasing its global footprint, a release from the Commerce & Industry Ministry said.

India recognised the significance of Singapore as an important member of the ASEAN grouping and considered it as its spring board to the region, the Minister said. The country is India’s largest trade partner among ASEAN countries.

Goyal said Singapore Exchange’s tie-up with the GIFT city, which was India’s first operational smart city, was a welcome development as it would boost international investments into the country.

Media Infoline | Feb 18, 2021

India & Singapore should invoke 3Bs- Buddhism, Bollywood, Business: Piyush Goyal

To further strengthen the India- Singapore economic and investment relations, the second meeting of India-Singapore CEOs forum was organized today.

Mr Uday Shankar, President, FICCI said that India-Singapore enjoys multifaceted strategic relations and both nations are supporting each other in the endeavour to reinvigorate multilateralism.

The members of India- Singapore CEOs Forum also agreed to work towards resolving regulatory issues and processes affecting bilateral trade and investment between the two countries.

Business Journal | Feb 18, 2021

India, Singapore can work together in fintech, e-commerce, smart manufacturing: Goyal

The Minister said he was looking at expanding Singapore-India ties resting on three Bs — Buddhism, Bollywood and Business.

Bilateral benefit

Goyal said Singapore Exchange’s tie-up with the GIFT city, which was India’s first operational smart city, was a welcome development as it would boost international investments into the country.

India Narrative | Feb 18, 2021

Piyush Goyal seeks to expand ties with Singapore

Piyush Goyal, minister of railways and commerce and industry, said the three Bs- Buddhism, Bollywood and business would hold key to enhance India-Singapore relations.

Speaking at the India-Singapore CEOs forum organised by FICCI, he underlined the need to expand people to people engagement for deepening ties. The minister also pointed out that a forum needs to be set up for women entrepreneurs, for both India and Singapore for sharing of experiences and success stories . The minister stressed on education and skill development being key pillars for strengthening India- Singapore ties.

S. Iswaran, minister for communications and information & minister-in-charge of trade relations, government of Singapore highlighted that there was need for greater engagement between the businesses on both sides. He emphasized on 3Ds- development, diversification and digital Economy for building a partnership that will benefit the two economies.

Last month, in the fifth India-Singapore Defence Ministers Dialogue, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Singaporean counterpart Dr Ng Eng Hen too reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties in the sector.

According to a report by ANI, both ministers expressed satisfaction at the progress of ongoing defence cooperation engagements between the two countries despite limitations imposed by ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. The meeting was held virtually.

The two ministers also held discussions on potential new areas of cooperation. The ministers also witnessed the signing of the Implementing Agreement on Submarine Rescue Support and Cooperation between the Indian Navy and Republic of Singapore Navy.

News Matters | Feb 18, 2021

India, Singapore can work together in fintech, e-commerce, smart manufacturing: Goyal

India and Singapore can work collectively in areas equivalent to e-commerce, fintech, good manufacturing and healthcare the place the nation affords a big market, Commerce & Trade Minister Piyush Goyal has mentioned.

“Our working collectively in these areas can really remodel India’s personal effort to provide one of the best to our folks,” Goyal mentioned on the India-Singapore CEO Discussion board organised by the Division for Promotion of Trade and Inside Commerce (DPIIT) and FICCI on Thursday. The India-Singapore CEO Discussion board was launched in November 2018.

The members of India- Singapore CEOs Discussion board additionally agreed to work in the direction of resolving regulatory points and processes affecting bilateral commerce and funding between the 2 nations, in line with a launch issued by FICCI.

The Minister mentioned he was increasing Singapore-India ties resting on three Bs — Buddhism, Bollywood and Enterprise.

Bilateral profit

Singapore’s Minister-in-charge of Commerce Relations S Iswaran emphasised on higher engagement between companies on each side. He pushed for 3 Ds — Growth, Diversification and Digital Economic system — for constructing a partnership that may profit the 2 economies.

Singapore and India are already working collectively in cyber safety and catastrophe reduction and training and talent growth will be taken up as pillars the place India can study from Singapore’s expertise, Goyal mentioned. This can be a partnership that may assist India to grow to be Aatmanirbhar and in addition give alternatives to the nation for growing its international footprint, a launch from the Commerce & Trade Ministry mentioned.

India recognised the importance of Singapore as an essential member of the ASEAN grouping and thought of it as its spring board to the area, the Minister mentioned. The nation is India’s largest commerce companion amongst ASEAN nations.

Goyal mentioned Singapore Change’s tie-up with the GIFT metropolis, which was India’s first operational good metropolis, was a welcome growth as it will increase worldwide investments into the nation.

Smart News | Feb 18, 2021

Goyal invites Singapore to invest in semiconductor manufacturing in India

Commerce and trade minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday invited Singapore’s firms to invest in semiconductor manufacturing in India as the problem is of great curiosity to the nation. At the Ficci India-Singapore CEO Forum, Goyal mentioned it’s a matter of concern that India has to depend on different nations for semiconductors.

Goyal additionally mentioned that e-commerce, fintech, sensible manufacturing and healthcare are important areas the place India gives a big market.

On a lighter notice, the minister mentioned that Singapore is “losing a very big opportunity by not bidding in the Air India process”.

Singapore Airlines has reportedly declined to be part of the Tata Group’s bid for Air India. They have a joint-venture settlement in full-service airline Vistara.

The authorities is anticipated to fetch Rs 15,000 crore from the sale of Air India, its subsidiary Air India Express and AISATS – a 50:50 three way partnership partnership between Air India and Singapore Airport Terminal Services Limited.

Financial Express | Feb 18, 2021

Buddhism, Bollywood, Business can expand people-to-people engagement between India, Singapore: Piyush Goyal

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said three ‘Bs’ – Buddhism, Bollywood and Business – can help expand people to people engagement and strengthen economic ties between India and Singapore.

He said education and skill development can be taken up as pillars where both the sides can work together and learn from Singapore’s experience.

“I look at expanding the Singapore-India ties resting on a greater degree of people-to-people engagement and I think that can rest on 3 ‘Bs’. The 3 ‘Bs’ that I think can expand our people to people engagement are – Budhism, Bollywood and Business,” he said while addressing India-Singapore CEO Forum .

He added that in the post-COVID period, “I would like to invite all of you and experience Buddhism, enjoy bollywood and engage in business in India”.

The minister also suggested two areas for enhancing cooperation and that includes ways to promote women entrepreneurship.

“Can we look at that engagement being taken forward to help us understand what Singapore does to promote women entrepreneurs and whether we can pull out a leaf or two from your own experiences,” he suggested.

Business World | Feb 18, 2021

Buddhism, Bollywood, Business Can Expand People-To-People Engagement Between India, Singapore: Goyal

He said education and skill development can be taken up as pillars where both the sides can work together and learn from Singapore's experience.

'I look at expanding the Singapore-India ties resting on a greater degree of people-to-people engagement and I think that can rest on 3 'Bs'. The 3 'Bs' that I think can expand our people to people engagement are - Budhism, Bollywood and Business,' he said while addressing India-Singapore CEO Forum .

He added that in the post-COVID period, 'I would like to invite all of you and experience Buddhism, enjoy bollywood and engage in business in India'.

The minister also suggested two areas for enhancing cooperation and that includes ways to promote women entrepreneurship.

'Can we look at that engagement being taken forward to help us understand what Singapore does to promote women entrepreneurs and whether we can pull out a leaf or two from your own experiences,' he suggested.

Outlook | Feb 18, 2021

Buddhism, bollywood, business can expand people-to-people engagement between India, Singapore: Goyal

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said three ''Bs'' - Buddhism, Bollywood and Business - can help expand people to people engagement and strengthen economic ties between India and Singapore.

He said education and skill development can be taken up as pillars where both the sides can work together and learn from Singapore''s experience.

"I look at expanding the Singapore-India ties resting on a greater degree of people-to-people engagement and I think that can rest on 3 ''Bs''. The 3 ''Bs'' that I think can expand our people to people engagement are - Budhism, Bollywood and Business," he said while addressing India-Singapore CEO Forum .

He added that in the post-COVID period, "I would like to invite all of you and experience Buddhism, enjoy bollywood and engage in business in India".

The minister also suggested two areas for enhancing cooperation and that includes ways to promote women entrepreneurship.

"Can we look at that engagement being taken forward to help us understand what Singapore does to promote women entrepreneurs and whether we can pull out a leaf or two from your own experiences," he suggested.

SME Times | Jan 27, 2021

'Ties with ASEAN critical element of Act East Policy'

Ministry of External Affairs Secretary Riva Ganguly Das, Secretary emphasised on the importance of India's relations with ASEAN and Oceania countries for enhancing collaboration in areas such as Digital connectivity, Information Technology, Fintech, Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals.

Addressing the session 'India's Engagement with World's Growth Centre - ASEAN and Oceania Region', organized by FICCI, Ms Das highlighted the centrality of these two regions in terms of India's vision for Indo-pacific and urged the industry to explore opportunities in emerging areas of cooperation like Blue economy, Disaster management and Sustainable development, Defence cooperation, building connectivity through India- Myanmar - Thailand Trilateral Highway.

Key principles of Act East Policy are promotion of economic cooperation, cultural ties, and development of strategic relationship with countries in Indo pacific region, added Ms Das.

Uday Shankar, President, FICCI highlighted that in order to build new and resilient supply chains with ASEAN and Oceania region, we must upgrade the skilling, improve logistics services, and strengthen the infrastructure connectivity with ASEAN and Oceania region.

He further added that sectors such as Start-ups and innovation, E-commerce, Infrastructure, Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, etc. hold the maximum promise for collaboration between India and the countries in the ASEAN and Oceania region.

Shankar also laid emphasis on business and economic cooperation in areas of mutual interest such as start-ups, and innovation, empowerment of youth and women and the development of MSMEs for elevating the plateau of our relationship with ASEAN and Oceania countries.

Ten News | Jan 23, 2021

Engagement with ASEAN and Oceania Region will remain critical element of India’s Act East Policy: Secretary (East), MEA

Riva Ganguly Das, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs today emphasised on the importance of India’s relations with ASEAN and Oceania countries for enhancing collaboration in areas such as Digital connectivity, Information Technology, Fintech, Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals.

Addressing the session ‘India’s Engagement with World’s Growth Centre – ASEAN and Oceania Region’, organized by FICCI, Das highlighted the centrality of these two regions in terms of India’s vision for Indo-pacific and urged the industry to explore opportunities in emerging areas of cooperation like Blue economy, Disaster management and Sustainable development, Defence cooperation, building connectivity through India- Myanmar – Thailand Trilateral Highway.

Key principles of Act East Policy are promotion of economic cooperation, cultural ties, and development of strategic relationship with countries in Indo pacific region, added Das.

Dilip Chenoy, Secretary General, FICCI delivered the vote of thanks.

India’s economic relations with ASEAN and Oceania countries have evolved over the years. Although we share a dynamic relationship, there is still huge untapped potential in trade and investment aspects that can be achieved. India can play a key role in reforming and creating new partnerships with these regions for enabling economic growth. The session also talked about how India can become the next potential alternative to the world, for de-risking business, bringing an opportunity to be part of global value chains.

India Education Diary | Jan 23, 2021

Engagement with ASEAN and Oceania Region will remain critical element of India's Act East Policy: Secretary (East), MEA

Ms Riva Ganguly Das, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs today emphasised on the importance of India’s relations with ASEAN and Oceania countries for enhancing collaboration in areas such as Digital connectivity, Information Technology, Fintech, Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals.

Addressing the session ‘India’s Engagement with World’s Growth Centre – ASEAN and Oceania Region’, organized by FICCI, Ms Das highlighted the centrality of these two regions in terms of India’s vision for Indo-pacific and urged the industry to explore opportunities in emerging areas of cooperation like Blue economy, Disaster management and Sustainable development, Defence cooperation, building connectivity through India- Myanmar – Thailand Trilateral Highway.

Key principles of Act East Policy are promotion of economic cooperation, cultural ties, and development of strategic relationship with countries in Indo pacific region, added Ms Das.

Mr Uday Shankar, President, FICCI highlighted that in order to build new and resilient supply chains with ASEAN and Oceania region, we must upgrade the skilling, improve logistics services, and strengthen the infrastructure connectivity with ASEAN and Oceania region.

Mr Shankar also laid emphasis on business and economic cooperation in areas of mutual interest such as start-ups, and innovation, empowerment of youth and women and the development of MSMEs for elevating the plateau of our relationship with ASEAN and Oceania countries.

Mr Dilip Chenoy, Secretary General, FICCI delivered the vote of thanks.

News Vibes of India | Jan 22, 2021

Engagement with ASEAN a critical element of India's Act East Policy: Riva Ganguly

Engagement with ASEAN and Oceania Region will remain a critical element of India’s Act East Policy, Riva Ganguly Das, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs said today.

The MEA Secretary emphasised on the importance of India’s relations with ASEAN and Oceania countries for enhancing collaboration in areas such as digital connectivity, information technology, fintech, healthcare and pharmaceuticals.

While addressing the session ‘India’s Engagement with World’s Growth Centre – ASEAN and Oceania Region’, organised by FICCI, Das highlighted the centrality of these two regions in terms of India’s vision for Indo-pacific.

She urged the industry to explore opportunities in emerging areas of cooperation like blue economy, disaster management and sustainable development, defence cooperation, building connectivity through India- Myanmar- Thailand Trilateral Highway.

Das further said that key principles of Act East Policy are promotion of economic cooperation, cultural ties, and development of strategic relationship with countries in Indo Pacific region.

Also present on the occasion, Uday Shankar, President, FICCI highlighted that in order to build new and resilient supply chains with ASEAN and Oceania region, we must upgrade the skilling, improve logistics services, and strengthen the infrastructure connectivity with ASEAN and Oceania region.

He further added that sectors such as start-ups and innovation, E-commerce, Infrastructure, Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, etc. hold the maximum promise for collaboration between India and the countries in the ASEAN and Oceania region.

India’s economic relations with ASEAN and Oceania countries have evolved over the years. Although India shares a dynamic relationship, there is still huge untapped potential in trade and investment aspects that can be achieved.

India can play a key role in reforming and creating new partnerships with these regions for enabling economic growth. The session also talked about how India can become the next potential alternative to the world, for de-risking business, bringing an opportunity to be part of global value chains, as per an official release.

Business Standard | Aug 31, 2020

India seeks stronger rules of origin as it urges ASEAN for FTA review

India has pitched for stronger provisions in the rules of origin, removal of non-tariff barriers and better market access in the existing existing Free-Trade agreement (FTA) with the the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), arguing the changes should kick off sooner rather than later.

At the 17th Asean-India Economic Ministers Consultations held virtually on Saturday, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal reiterated India’s consistent position that the review of the current FTA, in effect since 2010 has, has been inordinately delayed.

Goyal batted for closer engagement towards finalisation of the scoping exercise, before the ASEAN-India Leaders’ Summit scheduled in November 2020, and to start the full review before the end of this year. He said the review should make the Free Trade Agreement more user-friendly, simple, and trade facilitative for businesses.

Now, all sides have decided to direct senior officials to, "start the discussions to determine the scope of the review at the earliest", a statement by the government said on Sunday. "The review will make the agreement modern with contemporary trade facilitative practices, and streamlined customs and regulatory procedures," it added.

The Ministers also reaffirmed their commitment to take collective actions in mitigating the economic impact of the pandemic and resolved to ensure macroeconomic and financial stability. Crucially, the nations pushed for strengthening supply chain connectivity, particularly the unimpeded flow of essential goods and medicines in the region, in compliance with World Trade Organization rules.

Long time coming

The FTA with the 10-nation Asean bloc (Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, The Philippines, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Brunei and Laos) came into effect on January 1, 2010. Last year, in September, both sides agreed to review the agreement amid criticism from the domestic industry that the deal was helping imports rise much faster than exports.

Trade with Asean, which had consistently seen the best growth for Indian exports sank 10 per cent in 2019-20. Exports to the bloc stood at $31.54 billion, down by more than 15 per cent from $37.4 billion in 2018-19. Imports however remained much higher at $55.36 billion, albeit reducing from $ 59.32 billion, a 6.6 per cent fall. Imports from the region had recently been on the upswing since 2018-19 due to Chinese shipments being moved through the region, particularly Vietnam, government estimates say. But the latest pandemic and India's skirmishes with China along the Ladakh border has now restricted the flow.

“The government has critically analysed a wide number of tariff lines after consulting with industry bodies, and prepared its future vision of the deal may be asked to provide their input. All that is left now is to negotiate our position with the Asean,” a senior government official said.

India believes the deal has been instrumental in connecting Indian businesses to their South East Asian counterparts and domestic industry needs to better utilise the concessionary rates available to them. But the cost of such access has also been heavy. According to a study by the NITI Aayog, the utilisation rate of regional trade agreements (RTAs) by Indian exporters is very low (between 5 per cent and 25 per cent). Sectors where trade deficit has worsened account for 75 per cent of India’s exports to Asean, while trade surplus sectors have also shown only marginal improvement, it had added.

Also on Saturday, industry body FICCI, as the Indian secretariat of ASEAN India Business Council (AIBC) recommended an open approach to collaborate and increasingly operate in the services sector, a core component of economies in the region which has been hit hard by the pandemic. This comes in the backdrop of India-ASEAN trade target of US$ 200 bn trade by 2022, which now looks difficult, FICCI said.

Recommended to the ministers that ASEAN should consider introducing business travel cards with at least 90 days validity. Sangita Reddy, Co-Chair AIBC (India) said for special incentives for Indian pharmaceutical companies should be introduced for setting up plants in dedicated ASEAN zones.

Hindustan Times | Aug 31, 2020

Goyal asks Asean to bolster rules

Commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal has asked the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) to strengthen their “rules of origin” provisions, one of the key concerns of India, which has experienced an influx of Chinese goods routed through some members of the 10-member grouping.

Co-chairing the 17th Asean-India Economic Ministers Consultations on Saturday through video conference, Goyal highlighted that the free trade agreement (FTA) has to be “mutually beneficial” and expressed the need to strengthen the rules of origin provisions, work towards removal of non-tariff barriers and provide better market access, a commerce ministry statement said on Sunday.

He asked for an early review of the Asean-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) as the trade pact is hurting India’s interest, particularly because of violations of rules of origin. India is concerned and wants to review FTAs as several Chinese goods are dumped in its market through a third country with which India has a free trade agreement, a government official said, requesting anonymity.

The review is necessary as many items enter the Indian market taking advantage of the Asean-India FTA. Imports at reduced or zero duty put Indian industry at a disadvantage, the official said.

At the Asean-India Economic Ministers Consultations on Saturday, Goyal reiterated India’s consistent position that the review of the FTA has been inordinately delayed. India wants a review of the trade pact as balance of trade is heavily tilted in favour of Asean members: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

According to official data, India’s exports to Asean in 2019-20 were worth $31.49 billion while its imports from the group of countries reached $55.37 billion.

An industry study pointed out that India’s imports from Asean countries increased sharply after the signing of the FTA in 2009. India in 2009 signed an FTA in goods – Asean-India Free Trade Agreement (AIFTA) – with the group, and in 2014 inked an FTA in services.

The report, India’s trade and investment opportunities with Asean, prepared by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry in November 2019, said that in the post-AIFTA era, India’s merchandise exports to Asean economies increased from $23 billion in 2010 to $36 billion in 2018 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 5%, while its merchandise imports from Asean nations increased from $30 billion in 2010 to $57 billion in 2018 — a CAGR of around 8%. The report also emphasised the need to review the existing trade arrangements for mutual gains.

On Saturday, Goyal asked for closer engagement towards finalisation of the scoping exercise, before the Asean-India Leaders’ Summit scheduled in November 2020 and to start the full review before the end of this year, the commerce ministry said in the statement. Goyal co-chaired the Saturday meeting with Vietnam’s minister of industry and trade Tran Tuan Anh.

A report of the Asean India Business Council (AIBC) was also presented in the meeting. It also recommended a review of the AITIGA for mutual benefit. The ministers from India and Asean countries instructed senior officials to start discussions to determine the scope of the review at the earliest to make the FTA more user-friendly, simple, and trade facilitative for businesses.

Sangita Reddy, co-chair of AIBC (India), said India and Asean should develop a roadmap for collaboration in the health care and pharmaceutical sectors along with knowledge exchange and digital connectivity. “She shared that special incentives for Indian pharmaceutical companies should be introduced for setting up plants in dedicated Asean zones,” the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) said in a statement. The industry association is the Indian secretariat of the AIBC.

Asean ministers reaffirmed their commitment to taking collective action in mitigating the economic impact of the coronavirus disease pandemic and resolved to ensure macroeconomic and financial stability and resilient supply chain connectivity, particularly the unimpeded flow of essential goods and medicines in the region, in compliance with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules, the statement said.

AIBC also recommended elimination of non- tariff measures to enable seamless movement of goods and services, FICCI said in the statement. It proposed the introduction of a business travel card which would facilitate business travel between India and Asean countries. It would have minimum 90-day validity.

“A review of all existing FTAs is necessary because of two reasons – the geopolitical dimensions that gives an opportunity to India to become a manufacturing hub for several products such as pharmaceuticals and information technology-enables services, and to check dumping of Chinese products from Asean countries that is hurting our domestic industries,” said chartered accountant Vijay Kumar Gupta, a former central council member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).

World Smachar | Aug 31, 2020

Goyal asks Asean nations to strengthen guidelines of origin to examine inflow of Chinese language items

Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for commerce and trade, has requested the Affiliation of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) to strengthen the “guidelines of origin” provisions, considered one of India’s key considerations, as a result of the nation’s markets are being flooded by Chinese language items via some Asean international locations.

Goyal co-chaired the 17th Asean-India Financial (AEM) Ministers’ Consultations held on Saturday through videoconference in a bid to take care of social distancing norms due to the raging coronavirus illness (Covid-19) outbreak.

He highlighted that the free commerce settlement (FTA) must be “mutually useful” and expressed the necessity to strengthen the principles of origin provisions, work in the direction of elimination of non-tariff boundaries and supply higher market entry, a ministry assertion mentioned on Sunday.

Goyal requested for an early evaluate of the Asean-India Commerce in Items Settlement (AITIGA), because the commerce pact is hurting India’s curiosity, significantly due to the violation of guidelines of origin clauses.

India is worried and desires to evaluate FTAs, as a number of Chinese language items are dumped in its markets via a 3rd nation with which the nation has an settlement, a authorities official mentioned requesting anonymity.

The evaluate is critical, as many gadgets enter Indian markets benefiting from Asean-India FTA. Imports at diminished or zero responsibility put the home trade at a serious drawback, the official mentioned.

Goyal used the Asean ministerial discussion board to reiterate India’s constant place that the evaluate of the FTA has been inordinately delayed. He requested for a better engagement forward of the Asean-India Leaders’ Summit scheduled to be held in November and to begin the total evaluate earlier than the top of this 12 months, the commerce ministry mentioned within the assertion.

Goyal co-chaired the assembly with Tran Tuan Anh, Vietnam’s minister of trade and commerce.

A report of the Asean India Enterprise Council (AIBC) was additionally introduced within the assembly.

It additionally beneficial a evaluate of the AITIGA for mutual profit. The ministers from India and Asean international locations instructed the officers to begin the discussions to find out the scope of the evaluate on the earliest to make the FTA extra user-friendly for companies.

Sangita Reddy, co-chair of AIBC (India), mentioned the nation and Asean ought to develop a highway map for collaboration in healthcare and prescribed drugs sectors together with trade of information and digital connectivity. “She shared that particular incentives for Indian pharmaceutical corporations ought to be launched for establishing vegetation in devoted Asean zones,” the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Business (FICCI) mentioned in an announcement.

The trade affiliation is the Indian secretariat of AIBC.

The assembly was attended by the commerce ministers of all of the 10 Asean international locations comparable to Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

The ministers reaffirmed their dedication to take collective actions in mitigating the financial affect of the Covid-19 pandemic and resolved to make sure macroeconomic and monetary stability and resilient provide chain connectivity, significantly the unimpeded stream of important items and medicines within the area, in compliance with the World Commerce Organisation (WTO) guidelines, the assertion mentioned.

AIBC additionally beneficial elimination of non- tariff measures to allow seamless motion of products and companies, FICCI mentioned within the assertion.

Asean & Pacific

FICCI's Engagement

Timeline

Jul, 2023

Meeting with Shri Rajesh Agrawal, Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry

ASEAN India Business Council Consultative Meeting

Reception with Heads of Missions of ASEAN Countries

Jun, 2023

Interactive Meeting with H E Ina Hagniningtyas Krisnamurthi, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia

Industry Interaction with H.E. Mr. Le Minh Hoan, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development of Viet Nam and the Accompanying Delegation

Industry Interaction with H.E. Mr. Le Minh Hoan, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development of Vietnam

May, 2023

FICCI Diplomacy Unplugged series: Interactive Session with H.E. David Pine, High Commissioner of New Zealand to India

Apr, 2023

K12 Education- Scope & Partnership Opportunities: Industry interaction with Queensland Department of Education

Mar, 2023

Interactive Meeting with H E Dr Zulkifli Hasan, Minister of Trade of Indonesia

5th ASEAN - India Business Summit & Awards

Feb, 2023

Meeting with H E Mr Simon Wong, High Commissioner, High Commission of the Republic of Singapore

Jan, 2023

Round Table Meeting with Australia India Business Council to discuss Trade & Opportunities for Indian Companies in Australia postponed

Nov, 2022

FICCI Business Delegation to Australia

India Cambodia Business Forum postponed

Aug, 2022

Indo-Pacific Partnerships on Marine Ecology under Australia-India Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative Partnership (AIIPOIP) - Series of Masterclass on Plastic Waste Management: Masterclass II

Jul, 2022

Indo-Pacific Partnerships on Marine Ecology under Australia-India Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative Partnership (AIIPOIP) - Series of Masterclass on Plastic Waste Management: Masterclass I

3rd Masterclass on Industry-University Partnerships for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) focused internships in India and Australia

FICCI Masterclasses on Industry University Partnerships for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) focused internships in India and Australia

May, 2022

Indo-Pacific Partnerships on Marine Ecology

Mar, 2022

Masterclass on Industry-University Partnerships for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) focused internships in India and Australia

Feb, 2022

India-Mekong Networking Series

Aug, 2021

India Mekong - SME Internationlization Program

Jul, 2021

Singapore Pavilion & Showcase Launch

Feb, 2021

2nd meeting of India-Singapore CEO Forum

Jan, 2021

India's Engagement with World's Growth Centre ASEAN and Oceania Regions in conversation with Ms Riva Ganguly Das, Secretary (East),Ministry of External Affairs, India

Dec, 2020

Master Class on CAROTAR, 2020(Customs Administration of Rules of Origin under Trade Agreements Rules, 2020) and Faceless Assessment

India-Mekong SME Internationalization Program: A platform for SMEs for exploring opportunities for investment & trade with Cambodia, Thailand & Vietnam

Nov, 2020

ThaiTAM 2020 Online Business Matching

Aug, 2020

FICCI-AIBC Make in India Webinar on "Opportunities in Digital and Emerging Technologies"

Webinar on New National Education Policy of India

Jul, 2020

Webinar on Malaysia as a Gateway to ASEAN

Jun, 2020

Webinar on Harnessing the India - Philippines Business Potential in the Post - COVID-19 Era

Webinar on India-Vietnam Trade and Business Continuity in the New Normal

Webinar on Indonesia-India Cooperation in Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare sector

India - Turning Crisis into Opportunity for Singapore Investors: Emerging Stronger Post Covid-19

FICCI-INZBC Webinar on Disruptions in the Education Industry

Apr, 2020

Webinar on The Economic Impact of COVID-19 on India New Zealand Trade

Webinar on India Market Update during COVID-19 (for Australian Exporters)

Mar, 2020

FICCI Business Delegation to Vietnam and Cambodia

Interaction with Hon Barry O’Farrell AO, High Commissioner of Australia

Feb, 2020

Interactive Session with Hon David Parker, Minister for Trade and Export Growth, New Zealand

Meeting with H.E Mr Agus Suparmanto, Minister of Trade of Indonesia

Ambassador Speaks, H.E. Mr Ung Sean, Ambassador of Cambodia to India

Exclusive Interaction with Mr Eugenio Elevado, Commercial Counsellor, Embassy of Philippines

Nov, 2019

19th Vietnam International Textile & Garment Industry Exhibition

FICCI Business Delegation to Philippines coinciding with the visit of Sh. Ram Nath Kovind, Hon'ble President of India

India Pavilion at 'Singapore Fintech Festival'

Oct, 2019

FICCI Business Delegation to Philippines coinciding with the visit of Sh. Ram Nath Kovind, Hon'ble President of India

3rd India-Taiwan Industrial Collaboration Summit 2019 & TAITRONICS 2019

FICCI Business Delegation to New Zealand