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By T H Sheikh
Tokyo, January 29, 2025
In a significant move to bolster global investments, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav is on a four-day visit to Japan to explore and promote the abundant investment opportunities in his home state of Madhya Pradesh. The visit, part of the state’s ‘Invest in Madhya Pradesh’ campaign, includes key meetings with business leaders, officials, and investors from top companies, including Toyota Motor Corporation, as well as discussions on strengthening economic ties between India and Japan.
Today, the Chief Minister met with prominent business leaders at the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo, including Uniqlo's Chairman Tadashi Yanai and Toshiyuki Shirai, Chairman of Nitori Holdings. During the meeting, discussions centered around Madhya Pradesh’s strong agricultural base and industrial development. With India being one of the largest producers of cotton, Uniqlo expressed keen interest in increasing cotton farming and expanding textile production in the country, specifically in Madhya Pradesh. The state's growing industrial hub and business-friendly policies make it an ideal location for such investments.
Madhya Pradesh’s Growing Economic Potential
Dr. Yadav discussed the state’s strong economic performance, including a significant rise in exports to Japan, valued at $92.8 million in 2023-24. With a population exceeding 90 million, Madhya Pradesh is India’s second-largest state by area and is positioning itself as a rapidly growing industrial hub. The state’s economy has tripled over the last decade, with plans to double it within the next five years.
The Chief Minister assured potential investors of Madhya Pradesh’s commitment to a business-friendly environment, highlighting various incentives and policies designed to attract international industries, including those in the sectors of energy, mining, IT, and MSMEs. The state is also promoting specific industrial parks focused on medical devices, electric vehicles (EVs), textiles, and food processing.
Sector-Specific Policies to Drive Investment
Dr. Yadav underscored Madhya Pradesh’s sector-focused approach, noting the immense opportunities in diverse industries such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, logistics, IT, and renewable energy. With initiatives like EV parks and semiconductor zones, the state is attracting global interest from industries looking to expand into India’s growing markets.
Promoting Skill Development and Educational Collaboration
The Chief Minister also pointed to the vast potential for collaboration in education and skill development between Madhya Pradesh and Japan. With a robust network of technical institutions, including 52 private and 17 government universities, the state is well-positioned to supply a skilled workforce for industries, particularly in sectors like technology and manufacturing.
Strengthening India-Japan Relations
Dr. Yadav’s visit also included meetings with Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike and Indian Ambassador Shri Sibi George. The discussions centered on the growth of industry, technology, and employment, with both sides exploring further collaborations in research, education, and economic development.
Dr. Yadav also invited Japanese industrialists to attend the ‘Global Investors Summit’ in Bhopal on February 24-25, 2025. The event is expected to provide a platform for global leaders to explore Madhya Pradesh’s investment potential and further strengthen ties between India and Japan.
A Step Towards Future Growth
This visit marks a new chapter in the state’s economic development and its evolving relationship with Japan. As Madhya Pradesh moves forward with its ambitious plans to become a global investment hub, the state is sending a clear message to the international community: it is open for business, and Japan is an important partner in its future success.
Chief Minister’s Visit to Tribal Product Market and Paid Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi
Dr. Yadav’s visit also included a tour of the Tribal Product Market in Tokyo, where he interacted with artisans and explored opportunities to promote Indian handicrafts in Japan. In addition, the Chief Minister paid floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Edogawa City, Tokyo, underscoring the enduring legacy of Gandhian principles of non-violence and peace, which continue to strengthen the bond between India and Japan.
As Dr. Yadav’s visit progresses, Madhya Pradesh is poised to tap into new economic possibilities, laying the groundwork for stronger collaboration with Japanese industries in the years ahead.
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