Surat, June 25 – A significant meeting between the South Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) and officials from the Australian Consulate in Mumbai was held on Wednesday at Samahiti, Sarsana. The Australian delegation included Deputy Consul General Ian Sinclair and Research Officer Florence Alfonso. Representing SGCCI were Honorary Treasurer CA Mitesh Modi and Global Connect CEO Paresh Bhatt.
During the meeting, CA Mitesh Modi briefed the Australian officials on the diverse industrial landscape of South Gujarat, with a particular focus on Surat’s thriving textile, solar, raw materials, and lithium sectors. Paresh Bhatt further elaborated on SGCCI Global Connect’s initiatives to foster international trade and collaboration.
As per agency report, the Chamber extended an invitation to the Australian Tourism Board and entrepreneurs to participate in the upcoming Global Investment and Tourism Expo scheduled for August 2025. The delegation welcomed the invitation with enthusiasm, expressing interest in exploring future collaborations.
The Australian representatives emphasized the potential of the India-Australia Free Trade Agreement (FTA), particularly in industries such as textiles and raw materials. A key highlight of the discussion was the delegation’s keen interest in defense-related textile manufacturing. They noted a significant opportunity for Surat’s textile industry to supply materials for military uniforms in Australia. Plans were discussed for future visits by Australian entrepreneurs to Surat’s textile hubs.
Deputy Consul General Ian Sinclair also shared that Melbourne will host a Global Sourcing Exhibition in November 2025. He extended a formal invitation to Surat’s business community to attend the exhibition and also participate in upcoming bilateral trade events organized by the Australian Consulate in Mumbai.
The meeting concluded with mutual commitment to strengthen trade ties and explore new avenues of cooperation between Australia and South Gujarat’s business ecosystem.
