Piyush Goyal calls for stronger trade and education ties at India-France CEO Forum in Paris

India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, emphasised the need for streamlining business regulations and expanding bilateral cooperation while speaking at the India-France CEO Forum’s small group meeting on Tuesday (June 3) in Paris.Goyal acknowledged the challenges Indian businesses face while navigating European Union regulations and individual country policies, calling for a fast-track mechanism between ambassadors to help ease day-to-day pressure points. He stressed that India cannot be satisfied with the current $15 billion bilateral trade, and must scale up and diversify sectoral cooperation between the two nations.

Education initiatives and French language promotion
In a bid to strengthen educational ties, Goyal highlighted India’s goal to increase the number of Indian students in France from 10,000 to 30,000 by 2030. He also noted discussions with French officials on expanding French language education for Indian students, further reinforcing cultural and academic integration.Investments and manufacturing in India

Encouraging French businesses to explore India as a manufacturing destination, Goyal underscored India’s competitive edge in global supply chains. He expressed gratitude for French businesses’ trust in India, proposing the creation of working groups between companies from both nations to facilitate collaboration.

Recognising the contributions of major French companies in India, Goyal commended Air Liquide for its vital role in supplying industrial gases to hospitals and industries during the pandemic and noted the widespread use of Michelin tires across the country.

Piyush Goyal, is currently on a five-day official visit to Europe (June 1-5), with key engagements in France and meetings with EU officials. The visit aims to strengthen economic ties and advance discussions on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

During his time in Paris, Goyal is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with French Minister of Economy Eric Lombard and Trade Minister Laurent Saint-Martin, where discussions are expected to explore new trade opportunities and deepen Indo-French economic cooperation.