Introduction

The EU Chamber of Commerce in Mumbai hosted a significant roundtable meeting to explore and enhance trade and business ties between Slovenia and India. The meeting featured key representatives from Slovenia, including the Ambassador of Slovenia to India, H.E. Mateja Vodeb Gosh, and the Economic Counsellor of the Embassy, Mr. Tea Piri, to discuss building relationships and enhancing trade between Slovenia and India. The meeting focused on the Chamber’s role in facilitating trade, addressing challenges, and identifying opportunities for Slovenian businesses in India.  

Opening Remarks and Chamber Presentation: The meeting commenced with welcome remarks by Mr. Robin Banerjee, Senior Vice President, and Dr. Renu Shome, Director, showcased the EU Chamber’s role in facilitating trade through a presentation.

Felicitation of Guests: Key Chamber representatives, including Dr. Renu Shome, Mr. Robin Banerjee, and Mr. Siladitya Sarangi, along with members, felicitated Ambassador H.E. Mateja Vodeb Gosh and Economic Counsellor Mr. Tea Piri.

Key Discussion Points

• Chamber’s Role in Trade Promotion: The EU Chamber of Commerce emphasized its function as a facilitator for European countries, including Slovenia, to enhance trade and business relationships with India. It offers services such as networking, business delegations, B2B meetings, and sectoral committees to support trade.  

• Indo-Slovenian Trade Relations: The Ambassador acknowledged the growing importance of India as a trade partner for Slovenia, noting a significant increase in trade volume. The discussion also highlighted Slovenia’s strategic position in Europe and the advantages it offers for accessing the European Union and Balkan markets.  

• Sectoral Opportunities: Key sectors for potential collaboration were identified, including automotive components, pharmaceuticals, and green technologies. The importance of India’s role in pharmaceuticals and the opportunities in e-mobility and sustainable solutions were discussed.  

• Addressing Challenges: The meeting also addressed challenges such as the misuse of student visas and the complexities of setting up businesses in India. The Chamber offered its assistance in providing credible advice and support to Slovenian companies navigating the Indian market.  

• Upcoming Collaborations: The Ambassador shared information about upcoming delegations from Slovenia to India, focusing on sectors like logistics, ICT, MedTech, food, sustainability, smart cities, and hydrogen. These visits are expected to further strengthen the trade and investment ties between the two regions.  

Conclusion

The roundtable meeting successfully fostered a dialogue on enhancing trade and investment between Slovenia and India. The EU Chamber of Commerce reiterated its commitment to supporting Slovenian businesses in India, and the Ambassador expressed enthusiasm for future collaborations and partnerships.