As we conclude another impactful edition of FICCI LEADS, I am energised by the depth of engagement and the actionable insights that emerged from our discussions over the two days of this conference.
FICCI LEADS represents our commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue between industry leaders, policymakers, and international partners. This platform brings together diverse perspectives to address the most pressing challenges facing businesses and economies today, translating conversations into concrete collaborative action.
This year’s programme focused on six critical themes that define our contemporary business landscape: evolving global value chains, the AI revolution, innovation in vital technologies, proliferating trade dynamics, green financing imperatives, and the transformative power of startups. Each session was designed not merely as a discussion forum, but as a catalyst for practical solutions and enduring partnerships.
The programme featured the release of three significant research reports in partnership with BCG and EY, providing evidence-based insights on global value chains, artificial intelligence adoption, and innovation ecosystems. These studies offer frameworks for businesses navigating the complexities of our interconnected world.
We were honoured to host two distinguished Indian ministers whose addresses provided crucial policy perspectives on India’s strategic priorities. Hon’ble Minister of Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal outlined India’s ambitious trade agenda, announcing that negotiations with Oman are nearing completion within weeks, while EU trade discussions advance on a fast track. His emphasis on resilience in supply chains and partnerships among like-minded nations resonated strongly with our international delegates.
The Hon’ble Minister for Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, delivered compelling insights on green finance, emphasising that sustainable financing represents “the backbone of resilient competitive economies” rather than a niche sector. His articulation of India’s three-pronged approach to climate finance—treating it as development finance, positioning early investors strategically, and advocating for increased commitments from developed nations—provided a clear roadmap for collaborative climate action.
The programme also benefited from the strategic insights of international leaders, including Mr. Francisco Cervantes Díaz, President of Mexico’s Business Coordination Council; Mr. John W.H. Denton, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce; and H.E. Mr. Pankaj Khimji, from Oman’s Ministry of Commerce. Their participation underscored LEADS’ role in facilitating global cooperation and cross-border business partnerships.
The path ahead requires transforming today’s insights into tomorrow’s impact through four strategic imperatives. First, we must rebuild trust in multilateralism by strengthening global trade rules and modernising agreements to reflect contemporary realities. Second, deepening strategic partnerships for supply chain resilience through targeted collaborations in critical sectors, including semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy. Third, mobilising finance for green and digital transitions by scaling blended instruments and outcome-linked financing mechanisms. Fourth, translating dialogue into concrete deliverables through sectoral working groups, policy recommendation reports, and business matchmaking platforms.
The discussions revealed that uncertainty brings choice – we can retreat into narrow approaches or respond with creativity, cooperation, and courage. LEADS continues to advocate for collaboration as the most effective form of competitiveness. As we navigate the convergence of digitalisation, the green transition, and reconfigured value chains, the opportunities for investment, co-development, and technology partnerships have never been more promising.
The future belongs to those who act with courage, clarity, and compassion – turning today’s challenges into foundations for shared prosperity. LEADS 2025 has reinforced our conviction that meaningful partnerships, supported by robust policy frameworks and innovative financing mechanisms, remain our most powerful tools for building resilient, sustainable, and inclusive economies.
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