Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal met with Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa and State Secretary for Foreign Trade Hakan Jevrell to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation across key sectors
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal recently met with Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa and State Secretary for Foreign Trade Hakan Jevrell to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation across key sectors. The meeting, which took place in Sweden, was aimed at exploring opportunities in clean energy, digital technology, climate action, healthcare, life sciences, and skill development.
In a post on social media platform X, Goyal expressed his optimism about deepening economic ties between India and Sweden. “Had a highly productive meeting with Benjamin Dousa, Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, and Hakan Jevrell, State Secretary for Foreign Trade, Sweden, today,” he said. “We discussed strengthening collaboration across sectors like clean energy, digital technology, climate, healthcare & life sciences, and skill development, among others. Invited greater Swedish participation in India’s growing infrastructure and manufacturing sectors. Looking forward to unlocking new chapters of cooperation.”
The meeting comes at a time when both countries are keen to expand their economic and technological partnerships. India, with its rapidly growing economy and expanding infrastructure, offers a vast array of opportunities for Swedish companies. Similarly, Sweden, with its advanced technology and expertise in various sectors, can play a significant role in India’s development journey.
Before his trip to Sweden, Goyal completed a two-day visit to Switzerland, where he interacted with business tycoons and CEOs of several companies. The discussions focused on leveraging the agreement to boost economic ties between India and Switzerland. Goyal also held a series of sectoral interactions with CEOs of several Swiss pharmaceutical and life sciences companies. Additionally, he co-chaired a Business Roundtable on the Machinery, Electrical & Metal (MEM) Industry with Swiss Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin in Bern.
After the conclusion of his Switzerland visit, Goyal indicated that the Swiss part of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) will possibly be implemented from October 2025. The other three countries — Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway — have already ratified the trade deal. This development is expected to further strengthen India’s economic ties with the EFTA countries.
Goyal highlighted India’s “remarkable transformation” over the past 11 years in terms of technology, innovation, and how the country offers great avenues for doing business. He also encouraged Swiss industry and businesses to explore unparalleled opportunities for growth and investment in India, leveraging India’s skilled and talented workforce and facilitative business ecosystem.
The visit to Switzerland and Sweden underscores India’s commitment to fostering strong international partnerships. By engaging with key stakeholders in these countries, Goyal aims to create a conducive environment for mutual growth and development. The discussions on clean energy, digital technology, climate action, healthcare, life sciences, and skill development are expected to pave the way for innovative collaborations that benefit both nations.
As India continues to expand its infrastructure and manufacturing landscape, the involvement of international partners like Sweden and Switzerland becomes increasingly important. These countries bring valuable expertise and technology that can help India achieve its developmental goals. In return, India offers a vast market and a skilled workforce, making it an attractive destination for foreign investment.
The meetings held by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal with Swedish and Swiss officials highlight the growing importance of international cooperation in today’s globalized economy. By exploring opportunities in key sectors and encouraging greater participation from international partners, India is well on its way to achieving its vision of becoming a global economic powerhouse. The upcoming implementation of the EFTA trade deal with Switzerland and the potential for enhanced cooperation with Sweden are significant steps in this direction.
