IRENE SINO-CRUZ
Cebu is expected to benefit from the possible collaboration between local businesses and Indian companies with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) and the India Business Forum (IBF).
Under the MOU signed during the Indian Business Roadshow held recently at Radisson Hotel, the IBF will support CCCI programs as well as help promote the economic potential of the Philippines.
The Philippines is viewed as an emerging economic powerhouse in the areas of investment of various sectors. These sectors are identified as Job Expo, Innovation/Livelihood, Online Skills Training, Import/Export, Logistics/Transportation/Utilities and supply chain.
The India Business Roadshow held on November 14 and 15, 2023 brought together Cebu and Indian businesses providing an opportunity for potential trade and collaboration.
During the roadshow, there were several panel discussions on different topics such as Health For All, Energy & Infrastructure, Technology: AI as a solution, and Agriculture: Towards Food Security.
Organized by the Embassy of India in Manila in partnership with the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) and the India Business Forum (IBF), the business roadshow aimed to explore opportunities to enhance economic relations between businesses in Cebu and India. The roadshow, a two-day event set on November 14-15, 2023, showcased Indian businesses.
This event, organized by the Embassy of India in Manila in conjunction with the CCCI and the IBF, aimed to promote stronger economic ties between Cebu-based businesses and those from India.
Dr. Sadre Alam, Counsellor (Eco & Com) and HOC of the Embassy of India, earlier highlighted the sectors of focus, which include Agriculture, Energy, Infrastructure, Innovative Tech Solutions, IT-BPO/BPM, Healthcare/Pharmaceuticals, and Tourism. Based on their complementary strengths and comparative advantages, these sectors have great potential for collaborative ventures.
Dr. Alam also emphasized that both India and the Philippines are vibrant, rapidly growing democratic economies with immense potential for mutually beneficial cooperation.
Previously, the India Business Roadshow made its debut in the Philippines in Baguio City on November 8, 2021, followed by a second edition in Davao City on February 18, 2022. The third roadshow took place in Cagayan de Oro City on May 18, 2022, and the fourth edition was held in Ilocos Norte on March 27, 2023. These events witnessed the participation of numerous Indian and Filipino businesses.
The first edition of the India Business Roadshow in the Philippines was organized in a hybrid format in Baguio City on November 8, 2021. More than 10 Indian business participated in the event held in partnership with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority under the Global Biz forum.
The 2nd India Business Roadshow held in Davao City on February 18, 2022 drew the participation of 10 Indian businesses and around 100 Filipino businesses. On the other hand, the 3rd roadshow held in Cagayan de Oro City on May 18, 2022 was participated by 30 Indian and 71 Philippine businesses.
The 4th India Business Roadshow in Ilocos Norte was held on March 27, 2023 with 40 participants from the Indian side and 161 participants from the Philippine side.