WTCA, WTC Bengaluru to launch global business forum in India
Over 80 World Trade Centre businesses spanning 30 countries and territories have already confirmed their participation, with more expected to join
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Bengaluru: In a pioneering move, the World Trade Centres Association (WTCA), in collaboration with World Trade Centre Bengaluru, is set to inaugurate the 54th annual WTCA Global Business Forum (GBF) in Bengaluru, India, from March 3-6. Marking a significant milestone, this will be the first time the rebranded Global Business Forum, formerly known as the General Assembly, will be held in India, underlining the country's growing prominence on the global business stage.
The GBF, themed "EPIC: Empowering Progress through Innovation & Collaboration," will gather leaders from various sectors including business, government, academia, and media. With a focus on facilitating B2B connections, the event aims to showcase investment opportunities in the state of Karnataka, reinforcing India's appeal as a prime investment destination.
Over 80 World Trade Centre businesses spanning 30 countries and territories have already confirmed their participation, with more expected to join. The event will feature distinguished speakers such as Romal Shetty, CEO of Deloitte South Asia, and M.R. Jaishankar, Executive Chairman of Brigade Enterprises Limited, alongside notable government officials including the Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah, and the deputy Chief Minister, D.K. Shivakumar.
Key topics on the agenda include discussions on AI & tech start-ups, agritech, real estate, and exporting overseas, highlighting the diverse opportunities available in Karnataka across 12 industry sectors. In partnership with the Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce (BCIC), the event will offer onsite B2B matchmaking services to foster business connections.
India's status as the world's fifth-largest economy by nominal GDP and third-largest by purchasing power parity makes it an attractive destination for global investors. Bengaluru's reputation as the "Silicon Valley of India" further enhances its appeal as a hub for innovation and business growth.
John E. Drew, Chair of the WTCA Board of Directors, emphasized the significance of Bengaluru's entrepreneurial spirit in fostering synergies and exploring business prospects in one of the world's most promising economic regions. He highlighted the substantial growth of the WTCA network in India over the past decade, with 40 members representing major cities and contributing to India's sustainable development.
Vineet Verma, Managing Director of World Trade Centre Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kochi, and newly-appointed WTCA Board Member, expressed his optimism about showcasing Karnataka as a rising investment destination while fostering valuable industry connections. The event is poised to demonstrate the strength of the global WTCA network and catalyse business growth in Karnataka's dynamic economic landscape.
