India is poised to become a significant player in the global export market, particularly as it enhances its manufacturing capabilities and positions itself as a leading exporter of power equipment. According to Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary of the Ministry of Power, the government is committed to supporting this growth through updated policy frameworks, access to raw materials, and necessary testing infrastructure.
Speaking at the ELECRAMA 2025 global conference held on the outskirts of Delhi, Agarwal emphasized India's commitment to promoting clean energy and domestic manufacturing. "The government is fully committed to supporting the power industry—be it through policy frameworks, access to key raw materials, or testing infrastructure to achieve this goal," he noted. The conference showcased various initiatives aimed at aligning industry capabilities with national goals and advancing innovation within the sector.
The launch of the World Utility Summit at the conference sets the stage for global partnerships focusing on AI-driven power solutions and decarbonization strategies. Gurdeep Singh, Chairman and Managing Director of NTPC, highlighted India's aim to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based capacity by 2030. He stated, "ELECRAMA 2025 is a testimony to India’s rapidly changing power sector. The innovative products displayed reflect the success of the 'Make in India' initiative."
International interest was palpable at the event, with representatives from multinational companies, including Luc Remont of EDF and Vera Silva of GE Vernova, attending. Notably, the conference featured discussions about reimagining business models to bolster sustainable progress and drive consumer engagement. A special 'Women in Power' session addressed the increasing involvement of women in the energy sector.
Moving from power equipment to electric vehicles, new data reveals Germany's significant role as one of the leading exporters of electric vehicles to India, alongside China. Despite entering 2024 with only partial dominance, Germany accounted for approximately 37 percent of the 6,410 electric cars imported by India, with many stakeholders eager to regain competitiveness.
Tesla’s potential entry, fueled by Elon Musk's plan to import vehicles from Germany, signifies the burgeoning EV market. Analysts note, "While the Indian government is hoping Musk’s EV firm would eventually establish operations domestically, the question of tariffs and import costs remains." With German EV imports averaging around $46,691 per vehicle, the stakes for entry remain high but also lucrative.
On the other side of the Welsh border, export growth strategies have been emphasized as key to supporting the economy. The Welsh government has announced the 'Explore Export Wales' initiative, aimed at guiding businesses on their exporting journeys. With exports comprising roughly 37.1% of Wales' GDP, there’s recognition of the significant impact exporting has on productivity. Notably, businesses engaged in exporting are estimated to be 21% more productive than non-exporters.
Rebecca Evans MS, the cabinet secretary for economy, energy, and planning, articulated her priority for promoting exporting among SMEs, highlighting events like the Explore Export Wales conferences scheduled for March. "A healthy economy is one built on exports," she emphasized, citing success stories such as Zip-Clip, which credits its export strategy for increased competitiveness and innovation.
Meanwhile, organizations such as Credit Oman are also boosting export capabilities through comprehensive risk mitigation strategies. By offering insurance services to exporters, Credit Oman has engaged over OMR307,000 worth of claims across diverse sectors, marking significant growth from the previous year. “We are committed to providing the necessary support to Omani exporters and local sellers, both locally and internationally,” stated Ahmed Khalfan Al Balushi from Credit Oman.
This trend of enhancing export capabilities, whether through government initiatives or industry partnerships, positions countries like India and Wales as key players on the global stage. Enhanced collaboration among businesses, governments, and international partners marks the pathway to sustainable growth and productivity, proving once again the adage: export or bust.