City MOU to explore business links with India

THE City of Greater Geelong has improved its opportunities for bilateral trade with India, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Australia India Business Council (AIBC).

Last week’s announcement followed the city’s first Geelong-India Business Roundtable in June.

The MOU establishes a framework for collaboration aimed at fostering economic growth, promoting business engagement, and unlocking new opportunities for enterprises across both the municipality and the South Asian nation.

It outlines several joint initiatives, including:

Information exchange – Regular meetings and missions to share insights on partnership opportunities and priority industry sectors

Joint activities – Launch of the Geelong India Business Forum, planned for March 2026, to strengthen institutional knowledge and drive business-to-business outcomes

SME engagement – Identification of trade opportunities between Geelong-based businesses and Indian private-sector enterprises

Expert facilitation – Support for visiting Indian trade and industry experts to connect with their counterparts in Geelong, and

Investment promotion – strategic showcasing of Geelong in India through trade events and business forums to attract investment.

Migrants make up a significant portion of Geelong’s growing population, with Geelong being home to more than 5,000 residents born in India.

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership.

“Geelong is Australia’s fastest-growing city, and our future lies in building strong global connections,” Cr Kontelj said.

“This MOU with AIBC is a powerful step toward unlocking new trade and investment opportunities with India – one of the world’s most dynamic economies.

“We are proud to champion Geelong’s businesses on the international stage.”

AIBC national chair Deepak-Raj Gupta said the partnership reflected a shared commitment to deepening Australia–India economic ties.

“By working closely with the City of Greater Geelong, we aim to create tangible outcomes for businesses, especially SMEs, and foster a vibrant corridor of innovation, investment, and collaboration.

“This landmark MOU reflects our shared vision to strengthen trade and investment ties between Geelong and India.

“By bringing together businesses, innovators, and investors, we are unlocking pathways for sustainable growth and deeper collaboration across both regions.”