India & Japan: Future Global Manufacturing Hub

Industry leaders unanimously foresee India becoming a pivotal global manufacturing and growth hub, emphasizing the crucial role of Japanese collaboration. Speaking at the India Today Indo-Japan Conclave on May 22, experts highlighted global economic uncertainties as catalysts for India and Japan to deepen their strategic partnership. Bharat Kaushal of Hitachi India noted that Japanese firms' trustworthiness and advanced technology are key assets. He pointed out significant improvements in India's implementation and quality standards over the past decade, shifting focus from the lowest bidder to quality appreciation.

Syed Faisal Ashraf of Mitsui & Co. India suggested 2026 as an opportune moment to reflect on the past 20 years of engagement and plan for the next two decades, stressing the importance of consistent government policy. Yoshiyuki Kato of Panasonic Life Solutions India emphasized integrating technology with infrastructure, seeing India's digital speed and Japan's quality management as a powerful combination. Kanwal Jeet Jawa of Daikin Airconditioning India declared, "India's time has come," citing the automobile industry's success with Suzuki as a prime example. He concluded that India offers unmatched scale, speed, and stability, positioning it as a strategic manufacturing hub for Japan.