Vibrant Gujarat 2019 to push trade along with investment

Gujarat government is taking several new measures to make the ninth edition of Vibrant Gujarat early next year a success and the steps include encouragement to foreign delegates and investors to not just look at the state as an investment destination but also for trade and commerce, inviting young innovators and start-ups to the summit and even organising it at a time when the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas and the Kumbh Mela would be round the corner.

Gujarat chief secretary JN Singh told ET that the Vibrant Gujarat Summit will be held in the state capital from January 18-20, 2019 and will be inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi.

Asked about the oft-repeated criticism that though huge number of MoUs are signed at the summit, most of them do not reach fruition, Singh said a special pavilion will he set up this time just to showcase the status of various MoUs signed since 2003 to counter this charge.


Gujarat expects more than 65% of projects for which MoUs are signed to reach completion.

While the previous Vibrant Gujarat Summits were focused on getting foreign investment, this time there is an added emphasis is on trade and commerce where the avenues of import-export would also be highlighted. Some of the participants may not have much to offer in terms of investment but can make a significant contribution to import and exports of products. Gujarat has a significant presence in the field of auto manufacturing, diamond industry and ceramics, among other sectors.

The ministry of external affairs and NITI Aayog are involved in the preparations for the Gujarat Vibrant Summit.