CII Industry Vision Summit Focuses on Technology, Connectivity and MSME Growth in Keralam

KOCHI — The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Keralam recently hosted its Industry Vision Summit, bringing together key government officials and industry stakeholders to discuss strategies for building a competitive and future-ready economy in the State.

Inaugurated by State Industries Minister P.K. Kunhalikutty, the summit highlighted the necessity of integrating advanced technology, skilled talent, sustainability, innovation, and global connectivity into the regional business ecosystem.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Kunhalikutty pointed to the strategic importance of the Vizhinjam International Seaport. He noted that improved global connectivity would open up new export pathways for local artisans and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), while urging industries to transition away from conventional practices and adopt emerging technologies.

Arun K. Vijayan, Managing Director of the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC), outlined the government's focus on 22 priority sectors. He emphasized the adoption of a cluster-based approach to industrial development, urging better utilization of Keralam's strengths in skilled manpower, defense technology, research, and healthcare. Vijayan also stressed the potential of engaging the State's diaspora network and noted that Keralam's Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) policy would offer a competitive advantage in accessing international markets.

During the event, Joseph M. Kallivayalil, Chairman of the CII Keralam State Council, presented the CII recommendations document to the Minister. The document identified the Mission Samudra project, critical mineral opportunities in South Keralam, and the State's four international airports as primary drivers for a port-led, globally connected economy.

Kallivayalil also acknowledged administrative digital integrations such as K-SWIFT and K-SMART, alongside recent government plantation policy reforms. Looking forward, the CII recommendations called for increased attention to emerging sectors including sports and adventure tourism, the silver economy, and AI-enabled governance, proposing a target to introduce an AI assistant in every government office by 2030.

"The focus on port-led connectivity through the Vizhinjam International Seaport and digital administrative frameworks like K-SWIFT and K-SMART highlights a progressive shift for regional economic development. For businesses, MSMEs, and startups operating in the region, aligning with these infrastructure developments, emerging technologies, and ESG policies will be crucial to accessing wider global markets and scaling efficiently." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes