A trade mission to India presents a significant opportunity for economic growth in the West Midlands, according to regional leaders. The success of this initiative, they emphasize, hinges on how effectively it is executed.
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker is leading a six-day delegation visiting Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, with the goal of capitalizing on the UK-India Free Trade Agreement signed in July 2025. The mission, which runs through August 27, focuses on enhancing existing business relationships, attracting new investments, and promoting tourism.
The delegation includes influential figures such as Dr. Julie Nugent, CEO of Coventry City Council; Prof. David Mba, Vice-Chancellor at Birmingham City University; Greg Clark, Executive Chair of the University of Warwick Innovation District; and senior representatives from the West Midlands Growth Company (WMGC), the region’s official investment promotion agency.
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Organized in partnership with the India Global Forum and Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, the mission features meetings with major Indian corporations like Tata Motors, Infosys, TVS Motors, and the clean energy firm Atri Energy Transition. The delegation will also host an event in Ahmedabad themed “The Commonwealth Legacy,” highlighting the city’s role as the host of the 2030 Commonwealth Games. Additionally, roundtable discussions will convene key industry stakeholders and business intermediaries.
The West Midlands hosts approximately 276,000 ethnic Indians, reflecting deep-rooted cultural and economic linkages between the two regions. Several Indian giants—including Tata Group, TVS, Infosys, Hexaware Technologies, State Bank of India, and Mahindra—already have a strong presence in the region.
Indian tourism to the West Midlands has increased by more than 20 percent over the past decade, with visitors spending more money in the region than in any part of England outside London.
Mayor Parker remarked, “The West Midlands and India already share real strengths in manufacturing and automotive, digital technology, and clean energy. This mission is about turning our trade agreement into tangible benefits—boosting exports, attracting investment, and increasing tourism. Getting it right means more jobs and stronger businesses for our communities.”
Supporting these views, Harjinder Kang, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner to South Asia & Deputy High Commissioner to Western India, stated, “The UK-India economic partnership has never been stronger following last year’s landmark trade deal. The Mayor’s visit underscores this growing collaboration and will help businesses maximize the substantial growth opportunities ahead.”