The north forges links with India’s tech firms
SENIOR figures from across the north are heading to India to target tech trade links with the world’s fastest growing economy.
The group, including entrepreneurs, business bosses and civic figureheads, will showcase northern expertise in a range of different technologies.
They are forming the first high-profile delegation to take advantage of a new direct air link between Manchester Airport and India.
Jet Airways’ direct service to Mumbai was launched in November and operates five flights a week to India’s financial centre.
The delegates will look to exploit opportunities for trade and collaboration between India’s fast-growing tech sector and the north’s specialisms in areas such as advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, cyber security, health technology, and fintech.
The delegation will take part in the India-UK FutureTech Festival in Delhi and Mumbai. They are part of a UKwide presence at the event, covering the fields of agritech, creative, healthcare and life sciences, and technology.
International Trade Secretary Dr Liam Fox said: “As well as opening up trade and collaboration opportunities for businesses and universities, we hope that the link will also help to drive investment into a wealth of opportunities across the Northern Powerhouse. “My international economic department has a range of support available to businesses looking to make the most of the new flight route.” Andrew Cowan, CEO of Manchester Airport and chair of the Manchester-India Partnership (MIP), will deliver a keynote speech on the power of connectivity at a reception for all UK attendees in Mumbai, as well as representing the region on a range of panels. He said: “India is one of the world’s most important markets and it is clear there are many opportunities for economic, social and cultural collaboration. “Both parts of the world have globally-significant expertise in sectors such as tech and life sciences and the existence of a direct flight service is key to these links being exploited.” Mr Cowan will be joined by colleagues from the Manchester India Partnership – including MIDAS, Deloitte, and the Confederation of Indian Industry. Around 20 businesses from across the region are making the trip to the event, with senior delegations from the Manchester, Liverpool and Sheffield city-regions. Andrew Cowan, CEO of Manchester Airport