Feb 9, 2024
NJ Expands Global Reach with India & 4 Other Nations through Business Commissions
New Jersey is taking another significant step towards deepening its trade relations with a global partner.
Traded Editorial
New Jersey is taking another significant step towards deepening its trade relations with a global partner. In an announcement made on Tuesday, Governor Phil Murphy signed an executive order to establish the New Jersey-India Commission, signaling the state's commitment to expanding economic ties with India. As the second-largest foreign direct investor in New Jersey, India holds great potential for mutually beneficial trade and investment opportunities.
New Jersey Launches New Commission to Boost Trade with India
The newly formed commission has been entrusted with the crucial task of advancing bilateral trade and investment between New Jersey and India, ultimately fostering economic development. With India being the world's most populous nation with a rapidly growing economy, the collaboration holds immense promise. The commission will not only offer valuable advice to the governor but also extend its support to various government agencies and departments in New Jersey.
It comes as no surprise that New Jersey is home to a large population of Indian Americans, with approximately 400,000 residing in the state. This cultural connection further highlights the importance of forging stronger ties with India, both economically and socially.
A Blossoming Partnership: India's Investment in New Jersey
In a strategic economic mission led by Murphy and Choose New Jersey, India and the Garden State drew even closer in September 2019. The result? Over 1,200 new job opportunities sprouted through the expansion of three Indian companies within New Jersey's borders.
Over the span of two decades, India injected an impressive $2 billion into the state's economy. As a direct consequence, key sectors such as life sciences and technology flourished, yielding close to 6,000 much-needed jobs. The positive impact was undeniable.
Murphy's visit to India in 2019 solidified the commitment to nurturing this burgeoning relationship. Recognizing the shared economic strengths between New Jersey and India, he voiced his unwavering dedication to further strengthening the bonds between the two.
The proud contributions of New Jersey's thriving Indian immigrant population play a notable role in fostering this partnership. With the future in mind, embracing this opportunity for growth and innovation will allow both New Jersey and India to soar to new heights hand in hand.
A Unique Partnership for Economic Growth
In a remarkable initiative, New Jersey is set to establish the New Jersey-India Commission, forging a partnership that promises to strengthen economic ties and boost bilateral trade. With over $10 billion in trade and numerous two-way investments, this partnership is a testament to the existing economic engagement between the two entities.
However, it is not just about financial gains. The New Jersey-India Commission is also a platform to foster people-to-people connections and enhance knowledge partnerships. Collaboration in education and various other domains will flourish, cultivating a vibrant exchange between Indian and New Jersey communities.
It is worth noting that New Jersey has been actively expanding its global network by establishing partnerships with other nations such as Israel, Ireland, Japan, and South Korea. This proactive approach serves to enrich cultural and economic ties, ultimately benefiting the people of New Jersey.
The New Jersey-India Commission will consist of a diverse group of members, between 35 and 45 individuals, each appointed by the governor. The commission will be led by a chairperson selected from the appointed members, ensuring effective guidance and leadership.
New Leadership for Commission: Wesley Mathews appointed as inaugural chair
The commission, which aims to make significant contributions to various sectors, has announced its new leadership team. Wesley Mathews has been appointed as the chairperson, bringing his expertise and experience to guide the commission towards its goals. Joining him are a group of accomplished individuals from diverse backgrounds, including Dini Ajmani, Natasha Alagarasan, Sri Atluri, Snehal Batra, Coleen Burrus, Ravi Dattatreya, Kirti Desai, Parimal Garg, Vin Gopal, Balpreet Grewal-Virk, Kiran Handa Gaudisoso, Pavita Howe, Jaime Jacob, Monica Jain, Gurbir Johal, Suchitra Kamath, Krishna Kishore, Vidya Kishore, Kris Kolluri, Indu Lew, Jose Lozano, Wesley Matthews, Anjali Mehrota, Deelip Mhaske, Raj Mukherji, Suresh Muthuswami, Srinivas Pallia, Anand Paluri, Falguni Pandya, Carrie Parikh, Rajiv Parikh, Gurpreet Pasricha, Deepak Raj, Jatin Shah, Huzaifa Shakir, Sterley Stanley, Ragy Thomas, Steven Van Kuiken, and Christina Zuk. This diverse group of professionals will contribute their insights and expertise towards the commission's mission, ensuring a well-rounded approach to decision-making and problem-solving.