Gujarat now gateway to global economy: Amit Shah

Ahmedabad: Union home and cooperation minister Amit Shah said Gujarat has become the gateway to the global economy. He said Gujarat is set to take the lead in new industries such as semiconductors and green energy. Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel said Gujarat will become a $3.5 trillion economy by 2047 and contribute to making India a developed country.
Addressing the inauguration of the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry's three-day trade expo at Science City virtually on Thursday, Shah said, "Gujarat has played an important role in making India the fifth largest economy in the world and now will have to contribute significantly to make India the third largest economy."
"GCCI has played an important role in the economic development of the state. MSMEs are our biggest asset, and the GCCI should integrate them with startups to create a new ecosystem for youth," he said.
Shah highlighted Gujarat's sustained industrial growth and the chamber's support for businesses over the past 75 years. Stressing the imperative for a forward-looking 25-year roadmap, he said there is a need to integrate Gujarat's extensive trading network with digital transactions and foster entrepreneurship among the youth. He also highlighted the importance of smart infrastructure, seamless interconnectivity and Gujarat's strategic advantage conferred by its extensive coastline.
"Entrepreneurs looking to establish industrial units in Gujarat are assured of a business-friendly environment free from political interference and supported by efficient systems and a strike-free atmosphere," he said.
Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel said Gujarat is the first state to have prepared a roadmap for 2047 with a vision of ‘Earning Well and Living Well'.
"The Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make In India initiatives have helped the country become a manufacturing hub. Now global companies do not see India just as a huge market but also as a manufacturing hub," he said.
Zydus Group chairman Pankaj Patel said GCCI is completing 75 years and the trade expo on this occasion will become a platform for stronger future growth.
GCCI president Sandeep Engineer said, "Around 300 companies are participating in the expo and we have emphasized new-age emerging sectors. We expect around 15,000 people will visit the expo."