Meeting with Indian High Commissioner
The International Business Council met with the Indian High Commissioner, Mr Gopal Baglay and the Indian Consul Geneal for WA and NT, Mr Amarjeet Singh Takhi on Friday 19th April. This was a terrific opportunity for NT trade businesses to create awareness of both trade opportunities and issues, particularly those unique to the Territory.
Representatives of Chamber Members also attended the meeting, including Mahi Singh (Southern Stars Global), Rafay Khan (Australian Garment and Shoes Manufacturing Company), and Claire Maradani (Treeti Business Consulting)
In 2019 Australia signed a Free Trade Agreement (the Australia India Economic Cooperation Agreement, AIECTA) with India, which has seen a vast reduction in tariffs on trade between each nation. Consequently, there has been a noticeable increase in both exports and imports. Although there have been some significant exports from the Territory, we have not yet to fully realise the opportunities that this agreement offers.
Nationally distributed imports, workforce and co-investment were some of the topics raised in the meeting, with Mr Gopal recognising both the changing trade partnerships due to the AIECTA, and the opportunities and logistical challenges that exist. The overwhelming feeling from everyone involved was a combined approach to see realistic and practical outcomes, with a few potentially productive ideas being forwarded.
The IBC will be hosting multiple other diplomatic visitors from different nationalities throughout the year. These occasions are important to the NT International businesses, through bridging the higher diplomatic work of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, with the business to business practicalities.
The International Business Council thanks both the Indian High Commissioner and the participating Territory businesses for their time and valuable insights.
If you would like to learn more about the opportunity to expand your international trade to India, don't hesitate to contact Rohan Badenhop, Industry Councils Manager at [email protected]
Chamber of Commerce NT