Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited Dutch and global companies to design, innovate, and manufacture in India during a visit to The Hague [1].
This push for international investment aims to transform India into a global hub for production and services. By attracting high-tech design and manufacturing, the Indian government seeks to reduce reliance on imports and create a more robust domestic industrial base.
Speaking at a CEO round-table on May 16, 2024, Modi focused on the synergy between Dutch innovation and Indian scale [3]. He said the availability of cost-effective production and the impact of recent economic reforms intended to streamline business operations were key [1].
"I invite you to design, innovate and manufacture in India," Modi said [1].
He pointed to specific government incentives designed to boost manufacturing output and encourage foreign firms to establish a permanent footprint in the country [1]. The Prime Minister said that the combination of skilled labor and a growing market makes India an ideal location for companies looking to optimize their supply chains — particularly those seeking to diversify away from single-country dependencies.
Modi said that the invitation extends beyond simple assembly. He urged companies to integrate the design and innovation phases of their product lifecycles within India to ensure long-term technological growth [3].
Throughout the session, the discussions centered on how Dutch expertise in water management, agriculture, and smart living could be scaled using Indian infrastructure [3]. The Prime Minister said that the current regulatory environment is more welcoming to foreign capital than in previous decades [1].
“"I invite you to design, innovate and manufacture in India."”
This initiative is part of a broader strategic effort to position India as a viable alternative to China in the global manufacturing landscape. By specifically targeting Dutch firms—known for high-end engineering and sustainable technology—India is attempting to move up the value chain from low-cost assembly to high-value intellectual property and design.
