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Our commitment to sell Wales to the world has never been more focussed, Ken Skates, ahead of a Welsh Government led-trade mission to India this weekend.

First published:
12 September 2016
Last updated:

This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government

Luxury organic dairy products, chemical-free crop protection research and development (R&D) solutions, high speed gearboxes and advanced glass walls are just some of the products and services being showcased in Mumbai as part the trade mission which runs from 17-24 September.  

A diverse range of sectors - including Food and Drink, Construction, Energy and Environment, Life Sciences, and Advanced Materials and Manufacturing - have been carefully chosen to target some of India’s growing import markets.

As a dynamic, growing market, and a major South Asian trading hub, India offers the delegates the opportunity to promote their products and services on the international stage and pursue export opportunities.

Ken Skates said: 

“Our commitment to sell Wales to the World has never been more focussed. Our international trade programme forms a key part of our drive to stimulate Welsh business growth abroad and these missions are an important component of the overall package of support we offer companies.

“As an advanced consumer of the latest on offer from international sources, India offers opportunities for companies working across the sectors and it is an increasingly important market for Wales. Last year, Welsh exports to the country exceeded £146 million, something this latest mission aims to build upon.”

The Cabinet Secretary added: 
“By connecting delegates with like minded businesses in Mumbai, one of India’s most developed and promising cities, this mission provides an ideal platform for us to build on established links and discuss future export opportunities.”

As well as providing on-hand support and advice during the visit, the Welsh Government’s India office has also arranged a series of meetings so delegates can speak with like minded companies with a view to stimulating business growth and export opportunities.

One of the mission participants is mid-Wales based company, Compact Orbital Gears, who manufacture test rigs for the automotive and aerospace sectors. 

Managing Director, Stephen Hunton explains:  

“India is a rapidly growing market, particularly for aerospace and automotive, and there are good opportunities for our products there. We have already been successful in gaining some export business via partner companies in India, and we see this trade mission as a good platform to build on this success and talk directly to this exciting market.”    

Another of the mission participants is Markes International, a Llantrisant based company that designs and manufactures instruments to detect volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds. The company currently exports over 80% of its products and won the Queen’s Award for International Trade in 2015. 

Product Marketing Managing, Dr McGregor said: 

“Exporting is key to our business growth, and we are keen to build on this by looking at new markets. India is one of the largest manufacturers of essential oils, and whilst we have had some success in the market, we want to build on this. The trade mission is a good way for us to visit the market, meet new and existing customers and also network with other Welsh exporters.”

Companies taking part in the mission are: 

  • Manutech Europe Ltd
  • Bionema
  • Compact Orbital Gears
  • Daioni Ltd
  • FSG Tool and Die Ltd; 
  • Par Gwyddoniaeth Menia (Menai Science Park)
  • Markes International
  • Dairy Partners Ltd Cymru and
  • Divider Folding Partitions.