Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is positioning the state as a strategic hub for industrial investments, with a focus on the automobile and semiconductor sectors. Addressing over 140 South Korean business leaders at the Advantage Assam roadshow in Seoul, Sarma highlighted the state’s locational, strategic, and policy advantages, inviting global investors to explore opportunities in Assam.
The event, part of the lead-up to the Advantage Assam 2.0 business summit scheduled for February 25-26, showcased Assam’s potential as a gateway to India’s fast-growing economy and South East Asia’s markets. The Chief Minister emphasized the Centre’s focus on the Northeast, underlining the government’s commitment to promoting industrialization in the region.
Assam’s Strategic Vision for Industrial Growth
Sarma outlined Assam’s unique strengths, including its geographic proximity to South East Asia, robust connectivity, and favorable policy environment. He noted that the state is integral to the Indian government’s ‘Act East Policy,’ which aims to enhance development and connectivity in the Northeast. The policy aligns with India’s broader vision of making the region a hub for trade and investment.
Highlighting Assam’s growing appeal, Sarma pointed to ongoing collaborations with major Indian industrial houses, including Tata. He also expressed the state’s readiness to facilitate partnerships between South Korean firms and Indian businesses, reinforcing Assam’s role as a bridge between global investors and India’s industrial giants.
Focus on Semiconductors and Automotive Ecosystems
Assam is planning to build a comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem. This initiative will complement the Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) unit in Jagiroad. The facility is being developed as the world’s largest of its kind. Sarma emphasized that this initiative would place Assam at the forefront of India’s semiconductor ambitions.
The Chief Minister also pitched Assam as an ideal location for establishing an automobile manufacturing ecosystem. In meetings with CEOs from South Korea’s automobile ancillary firms, he highlighted Assam’s access to India’s $100 billion automobile market and its strategic connectivity to South East Asia. Sarma expressed confidence that such investments could transform the socio-economic landscape of the Northeast.
Strengthening Trade and Skilling Partnerships
Sarma held discussions with the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), exploring partnerships in trade, commerce, and skilling. These engagements aim to foster mutual growth and development, leveraging Assam’s strategic position and South Korea’s technological expertise.
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Tourism and Emerging Opportunities
The Chief Minister also underscored Assam’s tourism potential, inviting global investors to explore the state’s natural and cultural riches. The ongoing efforts to create a diversified industrial base, coupled with the state’s natural resources and skilled workforce, position Assam as a compelling investment destination.
Advantage Assam 2.0: A Platform for Collaboration
The Advantage Assam 2.0 business summit aims to attract top industrial houses and global investors. The event will showcase the state’s industrial and economic potential. Sarma’s upcoming visit to Japan highlights Assam’s ambition to become a global investment hub. These efforts reflect a strong focus on driving innovation and inclusive growth in the region.
By leveraging strengths in automotive, semiconductors, and tourism, Assam is creating opportunities for transformative investments. These developments could redefine the industrial landscape of
