WTCA 54th GBF in Bengaluru

Mar 26, 2024

The 54th edition of World Trade Centers Association Global Business Forum was held in Bengaluru from 3rd-6th March,2024. The event was inaugurated by Karnataka Hon'ble Deputy Chief Minister Sri. D. K. Shivakumar. This event, organized by the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) and hosted by the Bengaluru World Trade Center, marked the first time it took place in Karnataka and only the second time in India. This annual meetup of the Association witnessed active participation from Member WTCs and subject matter experts from the Government and Industry.

Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister Sri. D. K. Shivakumar was the Chief Guest for the inaugural ceremony held on 4th March. Hon’ble Industries Minister Sri. M. B. Patil and Mr. Romal Shetty, CEO-Deloitte India were the Guests of Honour. Other dignitaries include Mr. M. R. Jaishankar, Executive Director-Brigade Group, Mr. John Drew, Chairman- WTCA, Mr. Vineet Verma, MD-WTC Bengaluru and Member of Board-WTCA and Dr. S. Devarajan, President-Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce.

During the inaugural session, Deputy CM Shivakumar addressed the geopolitical dynamics, stating that India is currently at an advantage, presenting an opportune moment to capitalize on this momentum. He invited participants to explore Bengaluru's potential, collaborate, co-create, and celebrate the city's spirit and essence.

Hon'ble Minister for Large and Medium Industries Sri. M.B. Patil highlighted Karnataka's ambitious goal of becoming a $1 trillion economy by 2032 through sustained growth at a rate of 18%. Over the last five years, the state has witnessed a 62% increase in per capita income. Mr. Patil emphasized the State's potential for growth, its untapped markets, and the myriad opportunities it presents. The forum serves as a platform for global collaboration and exchange of ideas, reinforcing Karnataka's commitment to contributing to the nation's vision.

Deloitte together with WTC Bengaluru also released a report aimed at the investment opportunities across sectors in India with a special focus on Karnataka.

Other key highlights of the conference were:

240 registrations from 35 countries
250 plus B2B meetings
30 plus panel speakers on various topics and had participation from Government, Trade Associations, Consulates and industry
Nearly 110 WTCA Members participated
52 industries represented20 plus stalls in Bazaar plus 7 exhibitors
20 plus customised tours for delegates in Bangalore and around Bangalore and to Chennai, Mysore and Kabini
Industry participation from across 12 sectors
Release of the India report with focus on Karnataka by Deloitte
Media coverage in National and International magazines, news channels and dailies

The conference witnessed mainstage sessions, B2B meetings, WTC Plenary Day, company tours, Bazaar, Exhibitions and cultural performances curated by artists identified by Indian Music Experience (IME) Museum.