Latest news with #VijayKalantri
Fashion Value Chain
11-07-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
India–Sri Lanka Aim to Double $5B Trade Through ISFTA
At the India–Sri Lanka Trade Diplomacy Summit held at WTC Mumbai, top diplomats, government officials, and business leaders convened to strengthen bilateral economic engagement. The summit, organized by the World Trade Center Mumbai and All India Association of Industries (AIAI) in collaboration with the Consulate General of Sri Lanka, spotlighted trade opportunities under the India–Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (ISFTA). Opening with national anthems and a diya-lighting ceremony, the event featured dignitaries including Dr. Vijay Kalantri, Chairman of WTC Mumbai, and Ms. Shirani Ariyarathne, Acting Consul General of Sri Lanka. Dr. Kalantri emphasized the need to double the existing $5 billion trade volume by leveraging regional frameworks like SAARC, APTA, SAFTA, and ISFTA. Ms. Ariyarathne noted India's position as Sri Lanka's largest import source and highlighted opportunities in sectors such as Ceylon tea, spices, apparel, batik, jewelry, electronics, and essential oils, adding that Sri Lanka's GSP+ status under the EU could benefit Indian exporters entering global markets. Mr. Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman of the Export Development Board (EDB), discussed Sri Lanka's diversification into high-growth sectors like ICT, electronics, and processed food. He announced upcoming trade engagements including Sri Lanka Expo 2026 and the Design Mumbai Expo visit in November 2025. Tourism potential was reinforced by Mr. Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, who announced a Travel Fair from July 31–August 2 and shared Sri Lanka's target of welcoming 3 million tourists through increased connectivity and digital tourism strategies. WTC Mumbai and AIAI will also lead a business delegation to Colombo in September 2025 to attend Industry 2025 Expo, featuring over 400 exhibitors. Meanwhile, Disrupt Asia 2025, a leading innovation summit in Sri Lanka, will debut a $50 million fund of funds and include startups from IIT Madras, shared Mr. Sachindra Samarasundara from ICT Agency of Sri Lanka. Mr. Suman Udayakumaran of Sri Lankan Airlines advocated for expanded air travel ties, noting India's aviation market growth and Sri Lanka's strategic proximity. The summit concluded with a united commitment to strengthen trade, tourism, technology, and innovation collaboration. With ISFTA as a catalyst, India and Sri Lanka are poised to build a more integrated and resilient Indo-Pacific economic corridor.
Fashion Value Chain
08-07-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Sarthak Marks 17 Years with Abilympics & Inclusion Drive
The World Trade Center, Mumbai came alive with spirit, determination, and a celebration of ability as Sarthak Educational Trust, in partnership with the National Abilympic Association of India (NAAI), marked its 17th Foundation Day and hosted the Regional Abilympics 2025. The event opened with the soulful Ganesh Vandana, followed by the national anthem and a ceremonial lamp-lighting. Over 150 participants, including students, parents, dignitaries, and changemakers gathered in solidarity to promote empowerment and inclusion. Esteemed Dignitaries in Attendance: Dr Vijay Kalantri , Chairman, WTC Mumbai Shri Siddhartha Rastogi , MD & CEO, Ambit Capital Dr Jitender Aggarwal , Founder & CEO, Sarthak Educational Trust Shri Nitin Patil (IAS) , Commissioner, Skill Development Dept., Govt. of Maharashtra Mr. Raj Kapur, Advisory Board Member, Sarthak Educational Trust Key Highlights: An emotional announcement by Dr Jitender Aggarwal marked the day: 'Sarthak will celebrate its Annual Day every year at the World Trade Center Mumbai – a place that shares our commitment to inclusion.' In his address, Dr Vijay Kalantri praised Sarthak's reach and vision: 'You've reached 5.3 billion and aim for 1 billion – that's a remarkable goal. The differently abled possess extraordinary capabilities. WTC Mumbai stands with this mission of inclusion.' Through personal stories, Dr Kalantri underlined the strength and potential of people with disabilities, urging collective support for a more inclusive future. With Finland 2027 Abilympics on the horizon, the Regional Abilympics act as a critical platform, empowering youth with disabilities to display their talents and prepare for global representation. The two-day celebration continues on July 5, with skill competitions, workshops, and inspiring journeys that spotlight ability over disability.
Fashion Value Chain
17-05-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Dubai: India's Strategic Gateway to Africa and Europe
Dubai Can Be India's Strategic Gateway to Access African and European Markets Dubai's rise as a global trade and logistics hub is proving pivotal in strengthening India's global outreach. At the recent International Business Roundtable hosted at the World Trade Center Mumbai, industry leaders underscored the immense potential of Dubai as a gateway for Indian exports to Europe and Africa. Dr. Vijay Kalantri, President of the All India Association of Industries (AIAI) and Chairman of WTC Mumbai, stated, 'The UAE is a key strategic partner for India and central to the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.' With bilateral trade between the two nations touching USD 84.8 billion, the UAE stands as India's third-largest trading partner. Dubai: A Re-export and Investment Hub Dubai's role as a commercial and logistics hub was highlighted as central to India's export strategy. 'It is a vital re-export center for Indian goods like textiles, electronics, gems and jewellery, and food products,' said Dr. Kalantri. The city's business-friendly environment — including simplified tax regimes, 100% foreign ownership in most sectors, and robust free zones — continues to draw Indian investors. India, in turn, has emerged as a significant destination for UAE investment, with a cumulative inflow of USD 23 billion. Sectors like real estate, energy, infrastructure, private equity, and financial services have seen deepening India-UAE collaboration. Aligning Synergies for Growth The roundtable aimed to align cross-border synergies and scale up business momentum. While Dubai's interest in the Indian market is clear, Dr. Kalantri noted that actual investments must gain pace to fully capitalize on the opportunity. He cited Indian participation in Dubai-hosted expos and the growing presence of Dubai-based investors in Indian summits as encouraging signs. 'India is poised to become a USD 5 trillion economy. Dubai can help catalyze this growth by enhancing access to global markets and supporting sectors like clean energy, digital trade, logistics, and innovation,' he added. Dubai Chamber: Accelerating Global Access Representing the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Abhijitsinh Jadeja, Chief Representative – India, emphasized Dubai's growing relevance. 'With its diversified economy, world-class infrastructure, and robust logistics, Dubai serves as a perfect launchpad for Indian enterprises aiming for the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.' The India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) has further boosted trade, unlocking opportunities in textiles, food processing, electronics, and services. 'Dubai's D33 Economic Agenda and its focus on digital transformation, AI, fintech, and clean energy create immense potential for Indian startups and SMEs to scale globally,' Mr. Jadeja noted. The Dubai Chamber's India office actively facilitates bilateral business, offering market intelligence and expansion support to Indian enterprises. Conclusion: A Strategic Leap Forward As India strengthens its global economic footprint, Dubai is emerging not just as a transit point but as a long-term strategic partner. The synergy between India's high-growth potential and Dubai's enabling ecosystem offers a robust foundation for deeper trade ties, innovation-driven collaboration, and mutually beneficial investments.
