Mumbai, January 13, 2026: World Trade Center Mumbai warmly welcomes the official visit of H.E. Mr. Friedrich Merz, Federal Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, to India, describing it as a defining moment that further strengthens the strategic, economic, and technological partnership between the two nations.
Dr. Vijay Kalantri, Chairman, World Trade Centre Mumbai and President, All-India Association of Industries (AIAI), stated that India–Germany bilateral trade has already reached an impressive level of over USD 50 billion, clearly reflecting the depth and maturity of the relationship, while also highlighting the vast untapped potential that lies ahead.
He emphasized that the German Chancellor’s visit provides strong momentum towards the India–European Union Free Trade Agreement, which is expected to play a transformational role in strengthening bilateral economic engagement. Once concluded, the India–EU FTA will significantly enhance market access, reduce trade barriers, strengthen supply chains, and accelerate investment flows. This will give a strong push to India–Germany trade and provide renewed confidence to businesses, MSMEs, and startups on both sides.
Dr. Kalantri highlighted that the visit has reinforced collaboration across critical and high-growth sectors, including defence, manufacturing, automotive and electric mobility, logistics and infrastructure, shipbuilding, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, semiconductors, renewable energy, green hydrogen, battery storage, and climate-friendly technologies, where Indo-German synergies are powerful.
He welcomed the progress under the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership, noting that cooperation in renewable energy, climate finance, and clean technologies aligns closely with India’s long-term development priorities and sustainability goals. Dr. Kalantri noted that Germany’s global leadership in advanced manufacturing, engineering, Industry 4.0, artificial intelligence, clean technologies, and precision engineering, combined with India’s large market, skilled workforce, digital capabilities, and rapidly expanding industrial base, creates a highly complementary and future-oriented partnership.
He added that Germany remains one of India’s most trusted economic partners, with over USD 15 billion in cumulative investments and a strong presence across key sectors of the Indian economy. With growing collaboration in technology, sustainability, and innovation, the India–Germany partnership is well-positioned to scale new heights in trade, investment, and long-term economic cooperation.