Ludhiana, November 14
With global trade undergoing significant changes amid evolving international policies, new Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and geopolitical uncertainties, the Chamber of Industrial & Commercial Undertakings (CICU), in collaboration with Axis Bank, organised ‘Trade Connect – Ludhiana’ at Hotel Park Plaza, Ludhiana, bringing together more than 150 exporters, industrialists and business representatives for an insightful interaction on strengthening India’s export competitiveness. The event provided an important platform for the industrial fraternity to interact directly with senior banking professionals, government representatives and industry experts on emerging international trade opportunities, export financing, foreign exchange management, digital banking solutions and the challenges confronting exporters.
Upkar Singh Ahuja, President, CICU, emphasised that Punjab’s industrial sector has immense potential to expand its international footprint, provided exporters receive timely institutional support, policy facilitation and access to global markets. He stated, “Punjab has the manufacturing strength, entrepreneurial spirit and industrial capabilities to emerge as a much stronger player in international trade. Our objective should be to double exports from Punjab to global markets. However, achieving this vision requires close coordination between industry, government and financial institutions. Platforms like Trade Connect are extremely important as they bring all stakeholders together, help exporters understand emerging opportunities and provide practical solutions to their business challenges. CICU will continue to work towards creating an enabling ecosystem where even small and medium enterprises can confidently explore international markets.”
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Didarjit Singh, Vice President, CICU, who welcomed the distinguished speakers and participating exporters and highlighted the importance of industry–banking partnerships in facilitating trade and supporting the growth of businesses. Prashanth T.S., Group Head – Large Corporates, Mid Corporates and Medium Enterprises Group, Axis Bank, addressed the gathering on ‘Growing Together with Ludhiana’s Industry’, highlighting the importance of strengthening relationships with the industrial sector through comprehensive banking solutions. Adding the industry’s perspective, Dr. Ravinder Verma, Chairman and Managing Director, Ganga Acrowools Ltd., shared his client testimonial, while Ratul Mukhopadhyay, Group Head – Small Enterprises Group, Commercial Banking, Axis Bank, discussed the opportunities and challenges faced by MSMEs in the evolving business environment.
