BRICS CCI Chandigarh chapter launch

The BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BRICS CCI), which promotes commerce and industry in the BRICS and other friendly nations successfully inaugurated its much-anticipated Chandigarh Chapter. The launch marks a new chapter in fostering international collaboration and regional economic growth. The event was held in the presence of esteemed dignitaries, diplomats, and key stakeholders from the BRICS+ nations in attendance, reflecting the shared vision of strengthening global trade and investment. With this launch, BRICS CCI has 7 Regional Chapters in India and 6 Chapters internationally.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest,  S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan, Hon’ble Speaker of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha said, “I commend BRICS CCI for bringing this incredible opportunity to our region. This platform will help not only big businesses but also our local enterprises and young people, who are the future of our economy. The possibilities are endless—whether it’s in trade, technology, or creating sustainable solutions.”

Representatives from BRICS+ nations,  Mr. Si Wei, Counsellor, Chinese Embassy in India, and Mr. Ahmed Aljneibi, Senior Economic Affairs Specialist from the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates, highlighted key areas of cooperation such as trade, technology, and CEPA agreements.

The ceremony commenced with a presentation by Ms. Ankita Sachdev, Joint Director, BRICS CCI, highlighting the Chamber's vision, objectives, and the pivotal role the new chapter will play in promoting business partnerships in the region. Mr. Ruhail Ranjan, Treasurer of BRICS CCI in his welcome address emphasized the significance of Chandigarh as a strategic hub for innovation and commerce within the BRICS framework. Mr. Ranjan said, “The establishment of this chapter represents a step forward in building stronger linkages between local businesses and the global markets represented by the BRICS countries.”

Delivering the keynote address Mr. Ashok Kumar Singh, Vice Chairman of BRICS CCI highlighted the economic potential of Punjab and the role of the Chamber in unlocking regional growth. Μr. Singh said, “Today, where we have reached, there were many challenges along the way, but we faced each challenge and moved forward. Our journey doesn't end here; rather, it is a new beginning.”

Mr. Deepak Shukla, Regional Director, BRICS CCI Chandigarh and CEO of Geeken Design Concepts Pvt. Ltd., delivered the opening address, reiterating his commitment to advancing the objectives of the BRICS CCI Chandigarh Chapter and fostering meaningful collaborations across industries. Mr. Shukla, “Our future plans center on building strong relationships with local industries, encouraging collaboration, and bringing new businesses into the fold. We intend to engage key sectors such as technology, renewable energy, and manufacturing to create long-lasting partnerships that will drive growth for both the region and the BRICS network.”

Mr. Sameep Shastri, Vice Chairman of BRICS CCI underscored the importance of youth-driven innovation and leadership in shaping the future of BRICS partnerships. He said “We understand that the world today is more interconnected than ever, and the challenges we face – whether economic, environmental, or technological – require collective action. The BRICS CCI Chandigarh Chapter is a step towards fostering that collaboration, helping regional businesses, start-ups, and innovators leverage global platforms for mutual benefit.”

The BRICS CCI Chandigarh Chapter Logo was officially launched, symbolizing the beginning of a new era of collaboration and development.

In a closing act of honor, prominent local leaders and diplomats were felicitated for their contributions, including Shri Amarjeet Singh Sidhu, Mayor of Mohali, Mr. Arpit Shukla, IPS, DGP of Punjab, Mr. Manish Nayyar, GST Commissioner of Punjab, and Shri Anup Gupta, Councillor and Former Mayor of Chandigarh. Diplomats from the BRICS+ nations also received recognition, reaffirming the commitment to deepening ties between member countries.

The ceremony was also attended by the prominent leaders form the BRICS CCI including, Dr. Vinod Kumar Verma, Executive Director, BRICS CCI; Mr. Prann Sharma, Executive Director- Strategy & President, BRICS CCI Healthcare Vertical; Ms. Ruby Sinha, President, BRICS CCI WE Vertical; Ms. Shormishtha Ghosh, Governing Body Member; Mr. Sharad Agrawal, Governing Body Member among others.

The Event was supported by Eva Furnitures, Radha Agro Industries Pvt. Ltd., Decor Plus 99 and Granos World Food India Pvt. Ltd. 

The launch of the BRICS CCI Chandigarh Chapter is poised to accelerate regional development and foster greater collaboration between India and its international partners, creating opportunities for business, trade, and innovation.