The Indian Economic Trade Organization (IETO) represented by its President Dr. Asif Iqbal, accompanied by representatives from the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), led a significant delegation to the Philippines on September 22 to participate in strategic ASEAN meetings. This engagement reflects the commitment of Indian business leaders to strengthen economic ties and explore collaborative opportunities across the Southeast Asian region. The delegation, headed by Shri Nitin Kumar Yadav, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India, brought together industry representatives and trade experts to foster meaningful dialogue with their ASEAN counterparts.
Indian Delegation headed by Shri.Nitin Kumar Yadav, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Commerce Government of India and FICCI Delegates.
Purpose of the Engagement
The FICCI delegation participated in the 23rd ASEAN Economic Ministers Meeting to facilitate high-level business interactions and explore avenues for enhanced trade and investment cooperation with the Philippines. Key meetings included discussions with the Philippines Investment Zone Authority (PIZA), whose Secretary General welcomed the delegation, and a formal engagement with Ms. Cristina Aldeguer Roque, Secretary of Trade and Industry of the Philippines. The delegation also met with Shri Harish Kumar Jain, Ambassador of India to the Philippines, to strengthen bilateral relations. These interactions provided a platform for Indian business leaders to understand the economic landscape and business priorities of ASEAN member nations, with structured discussions focused on identifying areas of mutual interest and establishing foundations for long-term partnerships.
Areas of Cooperation
During the visit, the delegation showcased Indian enterprises operating in Manila and visited the Bambi food manufacturing plant to explore manufacturing and agricultural collaboration opportunities. The discussions encompassed several key sectors of interest, including trade and commerce, investment promotion, technology transfer, and skill development. The delegation highlighted India’s capabilities and strengths across various industries, while also identifying opportunities to collaborate on initiatives that could benefit both Indian businesses and ASEAN economies. The focus remained on creating win-win solutions that address the economic development priorities of all participating nations.
Significance for India–ASEAN Business Relations
This delegation visit holds considerable strategic value for India–ASEAN relations. As Southeast Asia continues to emerge as a critical economic hub, deepening business engagement is essential for Indian enterprises seeking to expand their regional presence. The meeting provided an opportunity to reinforce the shared commitment to strengthening economic cooperation, addressing trade barriers, and creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. Such initiatives contribute to the broader regional prosperity and underscore India’s role as a reliable business partner in Asia.
Delegation Participants in the ASEAN meeting.
Ms. Kamla Jeswani, Vice President for Trade and Domestic Relations, FICCI Philippines
Mr. Vishal Vishnu Hathiramani, President, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce (Phil.) Inc.
Mr. Puran Chand Dawar, Chairman, Dawar Footwear Industries, and Leader of the Federation Delegation
Dato’ Seri N. Gobalakrishnan, Chairman, ASEAN-India
Mr. Joey Concepcion, Chairman, ASEAN-Business Advisory Council
Shri Nitin Kumar Yadav, Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, India
Ambassador’s Address
H.E. Shri Harsh Kumar Jain, Ambassador, Embassy of India, Manila, addressed the delegation and highlighted the strategic importance of strengthening bilateral economic ties between India and the Philippines.
Remarks
“The successful India–ASEAN relationship continues to open new avenues for collaboration, and I sincerely thank the Embassy of Timor-Leste in India for organizing a meeting with H.E. Augusto Júnior, Vice Minister of Commerce and Industries of Timor-Leste.” — Dr. Asif Iqbal, President, IETO
FICCI Philippines representatives presented key perspectives on fostering enhanced trade relations and identifying collaborative opportunities between Indian and Philippine business communities.
Conclusion
The FICCI delegation’s visit to the Philippines underscores the growing importance of India–ASEAN business engagement in fostering regional economic growth. Through sustained dialogue and collaborative efforts, Indian and ASEAN business communities can unlock significant opportunities for mutual development. The delegation’s participation in the meeting represents a concrete step towards building stronger, more resilient business networks that will benefit enterprises and economies across the region.
