West Midlands India Trade Mission Aims for Major Economic and Jobs Boost
A significant trade mission to India, spearheaded by West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker, holds the potential to deliver a substantial economic uplift and job creation for the region, provided the strategy is executed effectively, according to regional leaders.
The six-day delegation is visiting Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and Bengaluru with the primary objective of building upon the UK-India Free Trade Agreement, which was officially signed in July 2025. The mission seeks to enhance existing trade relationships, safeguard current investments, and promote the West Midlands as a premier destination for both business and tourism.
High-Profile Delegation and Strategic Partnerships
The delegation comprises key regional figures, including Dr. Julie Nugent, Chief Executive Officer of Coventry City Council; Professor David Mba, Vice-Chancellor of Birmingham City University; and Greg Clark, Executive Chair of the University of Warwick Innovation District. They are joined by senior representatives from the West Midlands Growth Company, the official investment promotion agency for the region.
In collaboration with the India Global Forum and the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, the West Midlands Growth Company has organized a series of targeted events and meetings with senior executives from major Indian corporations and institutions.
Notable companies on the agenda include:
- Tata Motors, the multinational automotive manufacturer.
- Infosys, the global technology services and consulting firm.
- TVS Motors, a leading motorcycle manufacturer.
- Atri Energy Transition, a clean energy company.
Strengthening Cultural and Economic Foundations
The delegation will host a special event in Ahmedabad focusing on "The Commonwealth Legacy," particularly relevant as the city prepares to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games. Additionally, several roundtable discussions are planned to connect key industry bodies and intermediaries from both regions.
The economic and cultural ties between the West Midlands and India are already robust. Approximately 276,000 people of Indian origin live and work in the West Midlands, contributing significantly to the local economy. The region is home to numerous major Indian corporations, such as the Tata Group, Hexaware Technologies, Enzen Global, Suprajit Group, State Bank of India, Microland, Firstsource, and Mahindra.
Tourism from India has seen impressive growth, increasing by over 20% in the last decade. Visitors from India spend more in the West Midlands than in any other English region outside of London, highlighting the area's appeal.
Leadership Perspectives on the Mission's Potential
Mayor Richard Parker emphasized the existing synergies between the regions. "The West Midlands and India already share real strengths in manufacturing and automotive, in digital tech and in clean energy," he stated. "That gives us a solid foundation to turn last year's trade deal into something that delivers here at home."
He further explained, "We've built a strong trading relationship with India over many years, rooted in trust and deep cultural ties across our communities. This mission is about taking that further – growing exports from West Midlands firms, attracting new investment into our towns and cities, and bringing more visitors to our region."
Parker concluded with a focus on local benefits, "If we get this right, it means good jobs for local people, stronger businesses and more money going back into people's pockets across the West Midlands."
Harjinder Kang, His Majesty's Trade Commissioner to South Asia and Deputy High Commissioner to Western India, added his support. "The economic partnership between the UK and India is at an all-time high following the signing of the landmark trade deal last year," he said.
"The Mayor of West Midlands' visit to India is another strong testament to our ever-strengthening collaboration. Besides reinforcing the growing contribution of the West Midlands to the UK-India partnership, this visit will help businesses from both sides to gear-up to take advantage of the deal which will boost growth by adding billions of pounds across both economies."
The success of this trade mission is seen as a critical step in leveraging international agreements for tangible regional development, with a clear focus on job creation, business growth, and enhanced economic prosperity for the West Midlands.
