Cochin Chamber of Commerce & Industry has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Latvian Chamber of Commerce & Industry, marking a significant step toward strengthening economic cooperation between Kerala and the Republic of Latvia.
The MoU signing ceremony, held in Kochi, brought together key representatives from both chambers, underscoring a shared commitment to enhancing bilateral trade, investment, and business collaboration.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Vinodini Sukumar, President of the Cochin Chamber. This was followed by an insightful presentation by Saurabh Pramod Shah, the Indian Representative for the Latvian Chamber, who highlighted emerging opportunities for cooperation. Ginta Svilāne from the Foreign Affairs division of the Latvian Chamber also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of fostering cross-border business relationships.
The session culminated in the formal exchange of the MoU, symbolizing the beginning of a strategic partnership aimed at facilitating trade linkages, knowledge exchange, and industry collaboration between businesses in Kerala and Latvia.
Speaking on the occasion, Vinodini Sukumar noted that the agreement represents a key milestone in expanding Kochi’s global business outreach. She emphasized that such partnerships create valuable platforms for entrepreneurs and industries in Kerala to connect with emerging opportunities in European markets. She also expressed confidence that the collaboration would lead to stronger trade flows, increased investment prospects, and deeper institutional engagement between the two regions.
The development comes at a time when India is intensifying its global trade engagement, particularly with Europe, amid ongoing momentum surrounding the India–European Union Free Trade Agreement. Initiatives like this MoU are expected to play a crucial role in translating broader trade frameworks into tangible business opportunities at the regional level.
The Cochin Chamber also acknowledged the efforts of Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry for their continued leadership in strengthening India’s international trade partnerships.
With this agreement, Kochi further positions itself as a growing hub for international commerce, opening new avenues for collaboration between Indian and European businesses.