India and Japan have built a strong economic relationship over the years, with Japan now being one of the biggest investors in India. In a recent address at the India-Japan Economy and Investment Forum, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, emphasized the importance of this strategic partnership and how it is shaping India’s economic future.
India-Japan Partnership: More Than Just Business
India and Japan share a deep cultural and economic connection. Goyal pointed out that the Seven Lucky Gods of Japan have roots in Indian traditions, which reflects the long history of collaboration between the two nations. The partnership between India and Japan is often compared to a blend of sushi and spices—distinct, yet complementary, creating something extraordinary.
Japan’s Investment in India: A Boost for the Economy
Japan’s investment in India has been impressive. Since 2000, Japan has invested over $43 billion in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), making it India’s fifth-largest source of foreign investment. This shows how crucial Japan has been in supporting India’s economic growth.
CEPA: A Game Changer for India-Japan Trade
One of the key milestones in this partnership is the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), signed in 2011. This agreement has paved the way for stronger bilateral trade and investment. Currently, over 1,400 Japanese companies are operating in India, with 11 industrial townships across eight states focused on Japanese enterprises.
India’s Manufacturing Vision: Japan’s Key Role
The ‘Make in India’ initiative, launched in 2014 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, has played a major role in boosting India’s manufacturing sector. Japan’s contribution is crucial in this effort. Both countries are collaborating to build globally competitive brands, such as Maruti, which exports cars to multiple countries, including Japan.
Goyal highlighted that Japan’s standards of excellence in manufacturing serve as a benchmark for India. Indian manufacturers are being encouraged to adopt practices like ‘Kaizen’ (continuous improvement) and Lean Six Sigma to improve quality and efficiency.
Target: Boost Manufacturing to 25% of India’s GDP
India’s goal is to increase the manufacturing sector’s contribution to its GDP to 25%, and Japan is essential in achieving this. The collaboration between the two countries will continue to strengthen India’s position in global markets.
Strengthening Economic Ties: Trade, Tech, and Tourism
Goyal also stressed that India’s economic strategy focuses on four key pillars: trade, technology, tourism, and investment. Japan plays a central role in this strategy, helping India grow its economic ties with other nations.
The Indian government is making efforts to balance the trade relationship with Japan, aiming to increase Indian exports and create mutual benefits.
India’s FDI Growth: A Record-Breaking Quarter
India’s FDI has been growing at an impressive rate. In the second quarter of FY25, FDI surged by 43%, reaching $13.6 billion, compared to $9.52 billion the previous year. Singapore topped the list of investors, contributing half of the total FDI inflows.
Looking Ahead: Stronger Economic Ties Between India and Japan
As India continues to build on its relationship with Japan, both countries are poised to reach new heights in their economic journey. With Japan’s continued support in manufacturing, technology, and investment, India is on track to become a global economic powerhouse.
