Singapore: The first day of Odisha’s high-level delegation visit to Singapore, led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Industry Minister Sampad Chandra Swain, showcased a strong commitment to fostering trade ties and attracting global investments. The day began with a briefing by Dr. Shilpak Ambule, the Indian High Commissioner to Singapore, who highlighted the recent developments in India-Singapore business relations and the crucial role of Indian states like Odisha in strengthening bilateral partnerships, especially in sectors such as chemicals, petrochemicals, renewable energy, green fuels, and skilling.
Following the briefing, the delegation engaged in a series of meetings chaired by Chief Minister Majhi. The first discussion was with Dr. Edward Morton, Founder of CT Metrix, focusing on developments in IT/ITeS, semiconductors, medical equipment manufacturing, and smart city solutions. Chief Minister Majhi assured that the Odisha government would take proactive steps to develop a robust electronics ecosystem in the state and extended an invitation to Dr. Morton to visit Odisha and explore its investment opportunities.
The next meeting saw the Chief Minister urging Vivek Agarwal, Director of Visa Group Limited, to expand operations in Odisha’s steel and ferro-chrome sectors. The discussions emphasized increasing capacity, adding value to products, and creating more employment opportunities within the state. The delegation also met with Rabin Jhunjhunwala, Chairman of Orind Singapore Pte Ltd, who expressed interest in investing in the bio-fertilizers sector. Chief Minister Majhi encouraged him to establish a facility in Odisha, promising full support from the state government.
A visit to Sembcorp Industries Ltd. marked a significant moment in the delegation’s itinerary. During the visit, the delegation explored Singapore’s advancements in renewable energy, culminating in Chief Minister Majhi announcing Odisha’s approval of Sembcorp’s Green Ammonia project. This move aligns with the state’s focus on attracting investments in renewable energy, green fuels, and related manufacturing sectors.
The day concluded with a dinner hosted by the Indian High Commissioner to Singapore, where Chief Minister Majhi reflected on the importance of the visit. He emphasized that Singapore’s thriving industrial ecosystem and innovative practices offer valuable lessons for Odisha, particularly in infrastructure, logistics, and urban management. Majhi reiterated his government’s commitment to facilitating investments in sectors such as handloom, seafood, and skilling, while fostering growth and collaboration with global partners.
Industry Minister Sampad Chandra Swain highlighted Odisha’s strategic location on India’s eastern seaboard, positioning it as a major investment hub for renewable energy and green fuels. He emphasized the valuable insights gained from the day’s engagements, which will be instrumental in further enhancing Odisha’s industrial ecosystem.
The delegation’s visit to Singapore is part of the outreach efforts for the upcoming Utkarsh Odisha: Make in Odisha Conclave 2025. Over the next three days, the delegation will visit key sites, including the Jurong Petrochemicals Region, PSA Horizons, and ITEES, and hold high-level meetings to strengthen Odisha’s position as a global investment destination and a leader in sustainable development.