Maharashtra Positioned as Premier Investment Hub at Global Summit

Leaders, diplomats, and industry experts unite in Mumbai to advance investment and trade partnerships.

The World Trade Centre Mumbai and the All-India Association of Industries (AIAI) hosted the 10th Global Economic Summit and WTCA Asia Pacific Conference, spotlighting Maharashtra’s ambition to become India’s most attractive investment destination. The event brought together ministers, policymakers, diplomats, and global business leaders to strengthen international trade relationships and economic collaboration.

Mumbai emerged as the central stage for global economic dialogue as the World Trade Centre Mumbai and the All-India Association of Industries (AIAI) jointly organized the 10th Global Economic Summit (GES) alongside the WTCA Asia Pacific Conference on November 21–22. The gathering brought together ministers, senior policymakers, international delegates, diplomats, and industry leaders to strengthen trade cooperation and expand new avenues for economic growth.

Addressing the summit, Ms. Pankaja Munde, Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Animal Husbandry, Government of Maharashtra, emphasized the State’s efforts to build a one-trillion-dollar economy by 2027. She highlighted that the Chief Minister’s vision revolves around engaging all stakeholders—from industry to exporters—to support economic expansion, employment generation, and sustainable growth. She noted the government’s renewed focus on renewable energy, environmental responsibility, and climate-resilient development.

Ms. Munde further pointed out that Maharashtra consistently leads in FDI inflows and maintains a strong presence across key sectors such as agriculture and agro-products, engineering, manufacturing, IT, and ITeS. The State continues to nurture startups, MSMEs, and industrial clusters, creating an environment conducive to long-term economic development.

Mr. Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of Maharashtra, stressed that self-reliance can only be achieved by skilling the youth and equipping them for future-ready roles. He encouraged the integration of new technologies and innovative practices to upgrade production systems, thereby enhancing economic competitiveness. He added that the government is committed to building investor confidence by offering transparent policies and strong infrastructure that makes Maharashtra an attractive investment destination.

Supporting these views, Mr. Rahul Narwekar, Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, praised the participation of the global business and diplomatic community. He reiterated that Maharashtra is a business-friendly State with robust infrastructure, enabling seamless opportunities for manufacturing, services, and international enterprises.

Mr. Ameet Satam, Mumbai BJP Chief, noted that Mumbai, as India’s commercial capital, remains committed to welcoming investors wholeheartedly. He highlighted the government’s priority on law and order and the accelerated development of major infrastructure projects such as the coastal road, metro rail expansion, and new airports—reflecting the State’s commitment to creating a world-class business ecosystem.

Dr. Vijay Kalantri, Chairman of WTC Mumbai and President of AIAI, expressed gratitude to all participants and emphasized the relevance of the summit’s theme in today’s rapidly shifting global landscape. He shared that more than 500 delegates from over 35 countries participated, facilitating over 5,000 B2B meetings. He reaffirmed the long-standing commitment of WTC Mumbai and AIAI to supporting MSMEs, startups, and women entrepreneurs, promoting innovation, and encouraging international partnerships.

WTC Mumbai Vice Chairmen Mr. Sharad Upasani and Capt. Somesh Batra thanked the delegates and stated their confidence that participants would derive maximum value from the summit’s networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities.

A major highlight of the event was the signing of more than 30 MoUs between various World Trade Centres and with WTC Mumbai and AIAI. These partnerships aim to accelerate trade, investment, and cross-border collaboration. Delegates from countries including Malaysia, Argentina, Sri Lanka, Iran, South Africa, and Bangladesh participated in focused B2B sessions, opening doors for new business alliances and investment prospects.

Overall, the multi-day event at WTC Mumbai reinforced the city’s status as a global hub for trade, innovation, and strategic economic cooperation, further strengthening Maharashtra’s vision of becoming a premier investment destination.