Pune, India – The fifth edition of the Pune International Business Summit 2024 (PIBS), organized by the Mahratta Chamber of Commerce, Industries, and Agriculture (MCCIA), commenced on Monday, February 26, at the S. L. Kirloskar International Convention Centre, JW Marriott, Senapati Bapat Road. The two-day summit has brought together diplomats and Trade Commissioners from 10 countries to discuss and foster international business collaborations.
The inaugural session featured an exclusive video message from Piyush Goyal, the Minister of Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs & Food & Public Distribution and Textiles, Government of India. Minister Goyal commended the MCCIA’s contribution to Pune’s economic growth over nearly eight decades, emphasizing its role in empowering women through the Center of Excellence for Women. He noted Pune’s historical significance, cultural heritage, and its transformation into a key player in the global industry, particularly in manufacturing and the IT sector.
Reflecting on Pune’s response to the pandemic, Minister Goyal highlighted the city’s role in manufacturing indigenous vaccines, underscoring India’s leadership in the digital world. He declared India as the best destination for the manufacturing sector, with numerous opportunities across various industries. Minister Goyal expressed confidence in India’s pursuit of inclusive and sustainable growth, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat for future prosperity.
Deepak Karandikar, in his welcome address, acknowledged MCCIA’s pivotal role in bringing multinational companies to Pune’s IT sector and supporting MSMEs and women entrepreneurs. The focus areas of PIBS 2024 were outlined, covering emerging trends in international trade and investments, global supply chain strengthening, business partnerships, global prospects for SMEs, start-ups, and women-led businesses, and the role of technology in international business growth.
Prashant Girbane, DG, MCCIA, shed light on Pune’s global standing in investment and exports, emphasizing the city’s leading position in engineering goods exports. He highlighted MCCIA’s active role in organizing numerous business programs, engaging thousands of participants, and hosting international dignitaries to provide insights into Pune’s dynamic business sector.
Mike Hankey, Consul General at the US Consulate General, Mumbai, emphasized the joint cyber security initiative between the US Consulate and MCCIA. The initiative aims to address identity theft-related scams, intellectual property rights violations, cybercrimes, and various other cyber challenges, showcasing the commitment to ensuring a secure business environment.
