Diplomats experience West Bengal Durga Pujas, explore business opportunities

The Indian Chamber of Commerce hosted diplomats and heads of missions from 12 countries to discuss bilateral business relationships alongside an experience of West Bengal’s Durga Puja celebrations.

Diplomats and heads of missions from Germany, Australia, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, Italy, Thailand, Cyprus, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Indonesia participated in discussions earlier this week, exploring bilateral trade, investment opportunities, and greater institutional cooperation.

Along with representatives of the Indian Chamber of Commerce, two senior Ministers of the West Bengal government, the Minister-in-Charge for Industry, Commerce and Enterprises Tapas Roy, and Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta, participated in the discussions.

The West Bengal government was prioritising sectors, including engineering, steel, chemicals, semiconductors and IT, alongside traditional industries, while strengthening export-oriented commerce and startup support, Mr. Roy said.

“Our focus is on promoting modern industries through time-bound approvals, investment incentives, improved ease of doing business, and the development of a GIS-based industrial land bank. Our objective is to accelerate industrial and economic growth, and generate employment. I urge the industry and international business community to extend their cooperation and join us in this endeavour,” the Industry Minister said.

“The West Bengal government is working towards making the State an economy that is open to all, and presents opportunities that not only benefit our people but also those national and international stakeholders who choose to collaborate,” Mr. Dasgupta said.

West Bengal plays a significant role within the larger national ambition, Mr. Neotia said. “As we work towards the vision of Viksit Bharat, international collaborations can help Indian businesses reach new markets, strengthen manufacturing, adopt new technologies, and participate more meaningfully in global value chains. Collaborations can also create opportunities for learning, innovation, and employment alike,” he said.

Mr. Neotia, who is also managing director of Ambuja Neotia Healthcare Venture Limited, added that Durga Puja offered a wonderful occasion to introduce international guests to Bengal’s creativity, traditions and people, alongside its business potential.

During the summit, the Indian Chamber of Commerce released Bengal 2.0: From Here to Eternity, a book examining West Bengal’s economic journey, and outlining a roadmap for its revival.