By NZ International Business Forum
A drizzling, grey evening failed to dampen spirits as more than 35 people attended a very successful ag/hort co-operation seminar at the Indian High Commission in Wellington on 19 April 2023.
Hosted by High Commissioner Ms Neeta Bhushan and moderated by New Zealand International Business Forum’s Executive Director Stephen Jacobi, the India New Zealand Business Council and Export New Zealand also provided organisational support. The notes that were struck appeared to justify the High Commissioner’s confidence that the bilateral relationship is entering a new phase.
Presentations included an overview of the size and potential of the Indian agri-business sector from Invest India. Deepak Raj, CEO of Binsar Farms Pvt. Ltd., went on to highlight the blending of New Zealand dairy tech with a no-frills approach adapted for Indian conditions. A strong team, insight derived from data and deep links with local farmers are reasons for Binsar Farm’s success over more than a decade.
Zespri has also made a long-term commitment to the Indian market, identifying the developing interest in healthier lifestyles. Michael Fox explained that growing the total Indian kiwifruit market is a key part of Zespri’s thinking.
Final speaker Rohit Anand of Redstone Ventures is a New Zealand-based investment specialist who constantly visits India. He encouraged attendees to be clear about shared values, strategic purpose and setting clear priorities.
The evening was a great opportunity to discuss co-operation with India and to explore strategies delivering value to both sides.
INZBC was a partner and supporter of this event.
