Bhubaneswar: A high-powered delegation from Odisha, led by Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, concluded a successful four-day visit to Singapore, marking a significant step forward in the state’s mission to attract global investments and forge key international partnerships. The visit, which was supported by Enterprise Singapore (ESG), the High Commission of India (HCI) in Singapore, Invest India, and FICCI, included over 25 meetings across sectors, paving the way for transformative growth and development opportunities in Odisha.
Key Highlights of the Visit
Investor Roadshow and Business Engagements:
One of the key highlights of the visit was the flagship investor roadshow, which saw the participation of over 400 delegates from various industries. These included representatives from industry bodies like the Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), Singapore Business Federation, and Singapore Manufacturing Federation. The event drew interest from companies from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Japan, all eager to explore Odisha’s industrial potential and investment opportunities.
Skill Development Initiatives:
A major focus was the planned Phase 2 of the World Skill Centre (WSC) in Odisha. Discussions with the Institute of Technical Education and Education Services (ITEES) included introducing advanced training courses in emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and additive manufacturing. Long-term internship opportunities for WSC graduates in Singapore were also explored.
Petrochemicals and Green Energy Development:
The delegation visited the Jurong Petrochemicals Complex (JPC) to understand integrated industrial planning, which will inform the development of Odisha’s Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemical Investment Region (PCPIR) at Paradip. Companies like Sembcorp and Linde have shown interest in future developments at Paradip, signaling a promising future for Odisha’s petrochemical sector.
Ports and Logistics:
Discussions with the Port of Singapore Authority and a tour of TUAS Port reinforced Odisha’s vision of becoming a logistics hub in Eastern India. Companies like AP Moller Maersk and Vopak expressed interest in ship recycling, container manufacturing, and multimodal logistics operations, marking a step forward for Odisha’s growing infrastructure and logistics sectors.
Semiconductor Ecosystem Development:
The delegation visited a leading semiconductor equipment manufacturer, PEP Innovation Private Ltd, to gain insights into the requirements for a robust electronics and semiconductor park in Odisha. Lessons from these engagements will help Odisha develop its own high-tech manufacturing ecosystem.
MICE Opportunities:
A visit to Suntec Convention Centre highlighted the potential for Bhubaneswar to emerge as a premier Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) destination. Plans for a world-class exhibition centre in the state capital were discussed, which will position Odisha as a global MICE hub.
Diaspora Engagement:
The Odisha delegation engaged with the Odia diaspora in Singapore, one of the best-attended community events. The diaspora expressed their eagerness to further strengthen economic and social ties with Odisha, suggesting enhanced air connectivity, educational exchanges, and the establishment of a government office for Odisha in Singapore to facilitate deeper engagement with the ASEAN region.
G2G Meetings and Future Collaboration
High-level Government-to-Government (G2G) meetings were held with key Singaporean leaders, including the Deputy Prime Minister, Ministers of Trade & Industry, and the Minister of Transport. These discussions focused on long-term industrial planning, urban mobility, green shipping corridors, and the petrochemical sector. The talks laid the groundwork for closer cooperation, with an emphasis on sustainability and infrastructure development.
Additionally, Singaporean companies are invited to participate in the Utkarsh Odisha: Make in Odisha Conclave in January 2025, further deepening bilateral trade and investment ties.
Looking Ahead
The Singapore visit has set the stage for continued collaborations, with a host of future engagements planned, including the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (8th–10th January 2025) and the Utkarsh Odisha: Make in Odisha Conclave (28th–30th January 2025). These events will serve as key platforms for showcasing Odisha’s investment opportunities, forging new partnerships, and attracting global investments in sectors ranging from ports and green energy to skill development and semiconductor manufacturing.
Chief Minister’s Remarks:
Upon returning to New Delhi, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his satisfaction with the visit, noting, “Our Singapore visit has been highly productive, offering valuable insights and fostering partnerships across key sectors. Odisha’s rich resources, skilled workforce, and progressive policies make it a prime investment destination. I invite global investors and the diaspora to join us at the Utkarsh Odisha: Make in Odisha Conclave 2025 and shape Odisha’s growth story.”
Industries Minister’s Perspective:
Sampad Chandra Swain, Odisha’s Industries Minister, added, “This visit has underscored Odisha’s strategic potential in sectors like ports, green energy, and skill development. We are committed to leveraging global expertise to drive sustainable growth and innovation.”
With strong diplomatic and business ties now in place, Odisha is poised to see substantial growth and development in the coming years. The state is clearly positioning itself as a vital hub for investment, industry, and innovation in South Asia.