NSW businesses in agrifood and clean energy are being targeted in a new state government program designed to help exporters enter the Indian market, as trade authorities seek to build on growing commercial ties between India and Australia.
The NSW India Business Literacy Program will provide businesses with market information, connections and practical guidance on operating in India, with a particular focus on sectors identified as priorities in the federal government’s Roadmap for Australia’s Economic Engagement with India.
The program comes as India remains one of NSW’s larger overseas commercial and education partners. Two-way merchandise trade between NSW and India was valued at $6.87 billion in 2024-25, while more than 28,000 Indian students are studying in the state.
Industry and Trade Minister Anoulack Chanthivong said the government wanted to help more companies look beyond established export markets.
“The Minns Labor Government is focused on helping NSW businesses expand into new international markets, create jobs and drive economic growth across the state,” Mr Chanthivong said.
“India’s economic rise presents one of the biggest opportunities for NSW businesses over the coming decades, particularly in sectors where our businesses have a strong competitive advantage, including agrifood, clean energy and advanced technologies.”
The program includes a hybrid business event held in Parramatta on Thursday, August 13, which was also streamed for regional participants. Government representatives, exporters, market specialists and members of the Indian diaspora took part, with a more targeted workshop planned for September for selected businesses considered to have high growth potential.
“Through the NSW India Business Literacy Program, we’re giving businesses the practical support, market intelligence and connections they need to build confidence and pursue new commercial opportunities in India,” Mr Chanthivong said.
“We want more NSW businesses exporting, growing and creating jobs, and this program will help them navigate the Indian market and establish the relationships needed for long-term success.”
The focus on India comes as governments at both state and federal level seek to diversify Australia’s trade relationships and deepen economic links with the country. India is expected to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030, with demand for imported food, energy technology and other products continuing to attract the attention of Australian exporters.
The NSW program is being delivered with Asialink Business, with support from the Centre for Australia-India Relations, Austrade and Business Western Sydney.
“Strengthening our economic partnership with India will deliver benefits for NSW businesses, workers and communities, helping to secure future growth and prosperity across metropolitan and regional NSW,” Mr Chanthivong said.
Western Sydney is expected to play a central role in the program because of its concentration of businesses and its large Indian-origin population. More than 200,000 people of Indian heritage live in NSW, providing business and family connections that can assist companies seeking to understand the Indian market.
Parramatta MP Donna Davis said the city’s business base placed it in a strong position to participate.
“Parramatta is the economic heart of Western Sydney and home to a thriving business community that is well placed to benefit from stronger trade and investment links with India,” Ms Davis said.
“I’m proud that Parramatta will host this flagship event, bringing together businesses, industry leaders and experts to explore opportunities in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.”
The government is seeking to use the program to address some of the practical difficulties businesses can face when entering a large and diverse market such as India, including developing local relationships and understanding commercial conditions.
Ms Davis said Western Sydney’s Indian community was also an important part of those connections.
“Western Sydney is home to a vibrant Indian community whose connections, skills and experience continue to strengthen our relationships with India and support economic growth across our region,” she said.
“The NSW India Business Literacy Program will help local businesses build the knowledge, networks and confidence they need to pursue new opportunities, create jobs and grow their exports.”
The September workshop will provide more specialised assistance to selected agrifood and clean energy businesses preparing to enter or expand in India, as NSW seeks to convert growing political and community links with the country into increased commercial activity.
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