India–Norway Trade Dialogue at WTC Mumbai: Exploring Sustainable Energy and Maritime Innovations

Mumbai, March 2, 2026: World Trade Center Mumbai, in association with the All India Association of Industries (AIAI) and the Royal Norwegian Consulate General in Mumbai, successfully organized an International Trade Dialogue with Norway. This event brought together government representatives, industry leaders, and trade stakeholders to explore opportunities for strengthening India–Norway economic cooperation, particularly in sustainable energy, maritime innovation, and green technologies.

The event was attended by H.E. Ms. Monica Nagelgaard, Consul General, Royal Norwegian Consulate General, Mumbai, reflecting the importance of India–Norway bilateral engagement.

Mr. Fredrik Bjerke Abdelmaguid, Deputy Consul General, Royal Norwegian Consulate General, Mumbai, highlighted “Norway is keen to deepen economic engagement with India and expand cooperation across clean energy, sustainable maritime solutions, and innovation-driven sectors.” He added, “The complementarities between Norwegian technological expertise and India’s growing industrial and entrepreneurial ecosystem align strongly with the India–EFTA TEPA framework. The USD 100 billion investment commitment under EFTA over the next 15 years represents a significant boost to bilateral cooperation.”

Dr. Vijay Kalantri, Chairman, World Trade Center Mumbai and President, All India Association of Industries, said, “With India aiming to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2070 and targeting 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030, partnerships with countries like Norway, which are global technological leaders, play a key role. Beyond clean energy, there is also significant potential for cooperation in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, maritime equipment, shipping technologies, and chemicals, where both countries can leverage their complementary strengths to expand trade and industrial collaboration.”

Dr. Kalantri added, “Bilateral trade between India and Norway has crossed USD 1.2 billion, and with the India–EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), which came into effect after nearly 16 years of negotiations, there exists strong potential to significantly double the trade in the coming years.”

Ms. Reena R Rao, General Manager, Mahatma Phule Renewable Energy and Infrastructure Technology Limited (MAHAPREIT), a subsidiary of MPBCDC, Government of Maharashtra, said, “MAHAPREIT plays a vital role in promoting solar energy, green technologies, and inclusive infrastructure development to drive socio-economic empowerment. She further highlighted MAHAPREIT’s core verticals, including renewable energy and electric vehicles, agro-processing and biofuels, infrastructure and data centre development, as well as CSR-led initiatives, aimed at fostering sustainable and inclusive growth.”

“MAHAPREIT continues to serve as a key facilitator in aligning Maharashtra’s clean energy ambitions with community-led development through strategic partnerships and innovative projects,” added Ms. Reena.

Mr. Azam Ali Khan, Senior Energy Advisor for India, NORWEP (Norwegian Energy Partners), said, “There are emerging opportunities for collaboration in offshore energy, green transition technologies, and sustainable industrial practices. Strengthening partnerships between Norwegian companies and Indian enterprises, particularly MSMEs, can accelerate the adoption of energy-efficient solutions and contribute meaningfully toward achieving global climate goals.”

The session also included an interactive Q&A session, enabling participants to engage directly with speakers and discuss practical pathways for enhancing bilateral trade, investment, and technology cooperation.

The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Capt. Somesh Batra, Vice Chairman, World Trade Center Mumbai, who acknowledged the Norwegian delegation and participants for contributing to a meaningful exchange of ideas and reaffirmed WTC Mumbai’s commitment to promoting international trade dialogue and economic collaboration.