Assam Showcases Global Investment Readiness
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted the state’s growing readiness for global investments during the third day of the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2026 in Guwahati on Wednesday. He held high-level discussions with global industry leaders across key sectors, including semiconductors, green energy, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Sarma said Assam’s clear policies, improved infrastructure, and skilled workforce are creating a strong foundation for long-term investments.
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Focus on Semiconductor and Advanced Manufacturing
As part of Team India, the Chief Minister took part in a semiconductor roundtable with top executives from Synopsys, Qualcomm, Analog Devices, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Honeywell, and Henkel. During the interaction, Sarma outlined Assam’s strengths in policy stability, ease of doing business, and supply chain readiness.
He noted that several companies showed interest in local partnerships and diversification of supply chains, especially in emerging manufacturing hubs like Assam.
Talks on Skills, AI, and Technology
Sarma also held focused discussions with Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran on skill development and workforce readiness. He later met IBM Vice President Gary Cohn to explore collaboration in artificial intelligence and digital transformation.
According to officials, IBM plans to send a delegation to Assam soon to assess potential projects and partnerships in the technology sector.
Agriculture, Biochar, and Sustainability Initiatives
The Chief Minister met Varaha Group’s Chief Operating Officer, Ikarus Janzen, to discuss opportunities in biochar production, regenerative agriculture, and afforestation. The discussions focused on creating sustainable income sources for local farmers while promoting climate-friendly farming practices.
Sarma said Assam’s agricultural sector offers strong potential for innovation-driven growth.
Tea Industry and Trade Agreements
Highlighting Assam’s iconic tea industry, Sarma discussed emerging opportunities linked to the Indo-UK Free Trade Agreement and the proposed Indo-European Union trade deal. He emphasized state-level incentives aimed at reducing production costs and improving competitiveness in global markets.
The Chief Minister said Assam is well-positioned to benefit from expanded export access under upcoming trade frameworks.
Engagements with Global Corporations
Sarma met Philip Morris International CEO Frederic De Wilde to discuss the company’s long-term goal of moving toward nicotine-free products and harm-reduction alternatives. He clarified that any progress would depend on regulatory approvals.
He also held talks with Lulu Group Chairman Yusuff Ali, who explored investment opportunities in agri-processing, hospitality, and organized retail in Assam. AB InBev executive Andres Penate expressed interest in expanding manufacturing operations in the state and plans to visit Assam in February for further discussions.
Tourism and Media Interactions
The Chief Minister addressed a session titled “Tourism: Unlocking the Path to a USD 10 Trillion Opportunity,” where he spoke about Assam’s tourism potential and infrastructure growth. He also participated in several bilateral meetings and interacted with international media.
Sarma said Assam is witnessing strong investment momentum and increasing global attention. “Every region of India is now ready,” he said, adding that engagements at WEF 2026 are expected to accelerate economic growth and job creation.
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