The Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry organized an Interactive Session with Her Excellency Ms. Melba Pria, Ambassador of Mexico in India on 9th September 2016 in the Chamber.

The Interactive Session was also graced by Mr. Sumit Mazumder, former President of The Bengal Chamber and Hony. Consul of Mexico in Kolkata.

Discussions in the session focused on opportunities to define the path of India-Mexico Partnership that allows the growth of bilateral relations in the fields of economy, science and technology. Emphasis was on increasing the importance of diversifying the economic exchanges to promote trade and investment.

The interaction commenced with an address by the Ambassador on ‘Mexico- as an investment destination’. Some of the statistics on Mexico which emerged are mentioned below:

• 15th largest economy in the world, projected to be one of the top 10 economies by 2050.

• Leading exporter in Latin America.

• Solid macroeconomic stability.

• Network of free trade agreements which gives the country access to 45 countries and 1.2 billion consumers.

• Part of the TPP and the Pacific Alliance.

• 120 million people = strong domestic market.

• One of the best ratios for working age population in the world.

• Competitive labor costs.

• Expanding skilled labor force.

The interaction with Members led to discussions on various issues like energy and environment, health, education, labour, industry specific issues like catalytic converter for automobile sectors and others.

The Meeting was preceded by a Networking Lunch. The Bengal Chamber proposed to take a business delegation to Mexico. The Ambassador encouraged the proposition and also advised that it would be a positive approach to showcase West Bengal in Mexico.