Federation of European Business in India (FEBI) Unveils Leadership and
FEBI’s work facilitating economic dialogue, shaping policy, and promoting business growth will be key to furthering the EU-India economic relationship, bringing mutual benefits and driving sustainable economic progress for both regions.
In an official announcement, FEBI unveiled its leadership team with Mr. Rémi Maillard, President and Managing Director of Airbus in India and South Asia, the organisation's first President. Mr. Maillard's appointment signals a new era for FEBI as it takes on the vital role of representing European businesses in India. Alongside Mr Maillard, Mr Sanjay Tiwari, Public Affairs Advisor to Maersk India Pvt. Ltd., was appointed Vice-President, and Mr Oscar Esteban, President of the Indo-Spanish Chamber of Commerce, assumed the role of Treasurer. This leadership fostered closer ties between European companies and the Indian market, contributing to the growth of economic cooperation between India and the EU.
Mr. Hervé Delphin, Ambassador of the European Union to India and Honorary President of FEBI, emphasised the significant growth of EU-India relations in recent years. He highlighted that over 4,500 European companies now operate in India, providing 6.5 million direct and indirect jobs, contributing significantly to the country's economy. The EU is India's largest trading partner in goods, with bilateral trade amounting to EUR 123 billion in 2022-23. It also ranks among the top three foreign investors in India. Mr. Delphin expressed optimism about the ongoing negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the EU and India, which he believes will substantially enhance trade flows and economic cooperation. According to him, FEBI will be essential in fostering further economic collaboration by acting as a credible intermediary between governments and businesses, advocating for pro-business policies that promote growth and ease of doing business.
FEBI aims to be a vital force in enhancing the economic relationship between India and Europe, leveraging the growing presence of European companies in India. With its extensive network of over 70 companies from diverse sectors, the Chamber serves as a unified voice for European businesses in India, representing industries including Aerospace, Automotive, Agri-food Products, Chemicals & Pharma, Consumer & Luxury Goods, Finance & Insurance, Telecom & ICT & Digital Trade, Machinery & Capital Goods, Energy & Renewables, and Transportation & Logistics. This broad membership reflects the varied interests and ambitions of European businesses operating in India, with more companies in the pipeline to join FEBI in the coming months.
In addition to fostering business ties, FEBI's role is to engage constructively with Indian and European authorities, ensuring that both sides have a platform to exchange ideas and seek solutions to common challenges. The organisation aims to promote mutual understanding, offer a space for dialogue, and represent the collective interests of EU businesses in India, making it an influential player in the broader EU-India economic ecosystem. By doing so, FEBI hopes to contribute to the ongoing strengthening of EU-India relations, bringing more European investments and innovation to India while ensuring that Indian companies benefit from greater access to European markets.
As the EU-India economic partnership expands, FEBI is well-positioned as a key driver of change and a catalyst for greater collaboration between the two regions. By serving as an advocate for the business community, offering guidance on policy matters, and providing strategic insights into market dynamics, FEBI is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of EU-India trade and economic relations.
With the support of its leadership and growing membership base, FEBI is committed to advancing the interests of European businesses in India, contributing to a vibrant and active economic future for both regions. The Chamber's commitment to advocacy and collaboration underscores the importance of cross-border partnerships in a rapidly globalising world.
