Guwahati, Jan 22: Assam’s Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma took centre stage in Tokyo on the first day of the second leg of his global outreach for the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit. Addressing over 160 Japanese business leaders, Dr. Sarma presented Assam as a beacon of economic growth, a land of opportunity, and a natural partner for Japan in India’s Act East Policy.
In his presentation, Dr Sarma highlighted Assam’s transformation into a robust economy since 2014. With the state’s GDP surging from USD 29 billion in 2013-14 to an impressive USD 68.7 billion in 2023-24—an annual growth rate of 12.4%—he positioned Assam as a model of peace and development.
“Assam is not just growing; it is thriving,” Dr Sarma emphasized, pointing to the state’s investor-friendly policies, such as the single-window clearance mechanism and a USD 3.2 billion production-linked incentive scheme. “These policies have made Assam a preferred destination for global investors,” he added.
Dr. Sarma underscored Japan’s pivotal role in Assam’s growth story, calling for deeper collaborations to foster mutual economic benefits. “Japan is a natural partner in Assam’s pursuit of growth and development. Advantage Assam 2.0 is not just an event; it’s an opportunity to strengthen Indo-Japan ties,” he said.
During a roadshow in Tokyo, he invited Japanese industrialists to explore Assam’s vibrant investment ecosystem, emphasizing the state’s robust infrastructure, seamless connectivity, and vibrant academic environment. He also credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Act East Policy for creating pathways to holistic growth in Assam.
Sarma sought the expertise of the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) to enhance trade, commerce, and industrial collaboration between Assam and Japan. Discussions focused on leveraging JETRO’s capabilities to pave the way for mutual growth.
Assam’s readiness to host a dedicated business park for Japanese firms was highlighted. DrDrarma also proposed setting up testing centres for the Technical Intern Training and Specified Skill Workers’ program, enabling Assam’s youth to access short-term work opportunities in Japan.
The Chief Minister outlined Assam’s renewable energy goals and invited Hitachi to invest in green energy projects. “This partnership can drive Assam’s energy ambitions while creating sustainable growth,” he said.
Presenting the Tata Semiconductor facility at Jagiroad, which aims to produce 48 million chips daily, Dr. Sarma invited Renesas Global’s Vice President Charles Kawashima to join Assam’s semiconductor growth story. “Together, we can make Assam a global hub for chip supply,” he asserted.
Dr. Sarma extended a warm invitation to Tokyo Engineering’s leadership to attend the Advantage Assam 2.0 Summit and explore the burgeoning opportunities in Assam.
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