The Centre for Trade and Investment Law (CTIL), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, hosted an international conference on “Navigating the Future: Industrial Policy and Global Competitiveness” from January 17 to 19, 2025, at NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad. The conference, organized in collaboration with the Centre for International Trade and Business Laws (NALSAR), the World Trade Institute (WTI), and the World Trade Organization (WTO) India Chairs Programme, focused on Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, India's green transition, and inclusive sustainability in shaping industrial policy and global trade competitiveness.

PLI Schemes and India's Industrial Growth

A major theme of the conference was the role of PLI schemes in enhancing India’s manufacturing ecosystem. Experts emphasized that structured and transparent PLI schemes could strengthen India’s position in global supply chains, especially in critical raw materials and key sectors like electronics, semiconductors, and renewable energy.

Former Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, Mr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia, stressed that PLI schemes should integrate economic security with trade priorities to maximize efficiency. He highlighted that balancing free trade and strategic protectionism is essential to counter global shifts due to China’s industrial dominance and policy shifts in the United States.

India’s Green Transition and Sustainable Industrial Policies

India’s commitment to sustainable industrial development was another key topic of discussion. Mr. Dammu Ravi, Secretary (Economic Relations), Ministry of External Affairs, highlighted India’s leadership in driving the energy transition and industrial self-sufficiency. He emphasized that green industrial policies could support long-term economic growth while ensuring environmental responsibility.

Several experts pointed out that India’s green transition aligns with global efforts to achieve net-zero emissions. They discussed the importance of balancing industrial incentives with environmental regulations to promote clean energy solutions.

Global Trade Rules and India's Supply Chain Role

The conference also addressed India’s growing role in global trade and supply chains. Experts discussed WTO trade regulations and their impact on India’s industrial policies. Dr. Werner Zdouc, Dr. Isabelle Van Damme, and Professor Abhijit Das, among others, provided insights into value chain integration, fair trade policies, and industrial competitiveness.

The discussions focused on how India could strategically position itself as a key player in global trade by leveraging PLI incentives and sustainable policies. The importance of trade transparency and cost-effective interventions was repeatedly emphasized to ensure compliance with global trade rules.

Launch of Investment Law Compass

A significant highlight of the conference was the launch of CTIL’s monthly newsletter, “Investment Law Compass: Navigating through the Global Investment Framework”. This initiative aims to provide regular insights and updates on global investment laws and trade frameworks.

The newsletter is expected to become a key resource for policy analysts, investors, and industrial leaders, helping them navigate the complex global investment landscape.

Conclusion: India’s Vision for Industrial and Trade Growth

In the valedictory session, Professor James J. Nedumpara, Head of CTIL, described the conference as a significant step towards fostering global collaboration on industrial policy. With PLI schemes driving manufacturing growth, green transition shaping sustainability efforts, and trade policies enhancing competitiveness, India is positioning itself as a major player in global industrial transformation.

By aligning industrial incentives with sustainability goals and ensuring compliance with global trade standards, India is laying the foundation for a robust and competitive economy that aligns with its long-term economic vision and global leadership aspirations.

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