Trade, Investment & Innovation: Chch Aims At India Under New MoU With INZBC

In a significant step to enhance trade, investment, and innovation, the Christchurch City Council and the India New Zealand Business Council (INZBC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement aims to foster bilateral economic relations between Christchurch and India, one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

Bharat Chawla, Chair of the INZBC, shared insights on the next steps for the partnership, emphasising that it is still in its early stages. “We are actively exploring a range of initiatives that will foster mutually beneficial opportunities between Christchurch and Indian businesses,” he said.

Key areas of potential collaboration outlined in the MoU include aerospace, disaster risk reduction, education, environmental sustainability, renewable energy, technology, and tourism.

“As our discussions progress, we anticipate making more detailed announcements over the next six months regarding specific projects and initiatives,” Chawla added.

This move also encourages to bridge the gap between small and medium-sized businesses in Christchurch seeking to enter the Indian market. 

“INZBC’s role is primarily around trade and commerce – to help identify opportunities, facilitate introductions, and provide recommendations to Council and interested parties in India.

Mayor Phil Mauger and INZBC Board Member Edwin Paul also praised the MoU, expressing enthusiasm for its future potential and partnership.

Photo: Supplied

“Christchurch is eager to strengthen business ties with India. The country is one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, known for its incredible talent, technological advancements, and entrepreneurial spirit,” Mauger said.

Paul highlighted the long-term economic potential of the partnership and this will “create avenues for collaboration in key sectors such as aerospace, disaster risk reduction, education, environmental sustainability, renewable energy, technology, and tourism.”

“Christchurch businesses will be able to use this relationship as a launching pad to build networks and access the huge Indian market,” Paul added.

Regarding the long-term sustainability of the partnership, Chawla stressed the importance of both cultural and commercial exchanges. “There is already a strong Indian community in Christchurch, and activating this community, both culturally and commercially, will be key to the project’s long-term sustainability,” he said.

INZBC plans to connect Christchurch businesses and educational institutions with India’s entrepreneurial talent and cutting-edge innovations. “We hope to encourage joint ventures, knowledge sharing, and investment. Additionally, initiatives such as industry partnerships, research collaborations, and business delegations will help strengthen these ties and create tangible opportunities for both regions,” Chawla noted.

Although still in the planning stages, both the Council and INZBC are already considering potential trade delegations and business exchange programmes as part of the MoU. “We anticipate making further announcements in the coming months as these plans develop,” he added.