An international conference on industrial policy and global competitiveness, organized by the Centre for Trade and Investment Law (CTIL) in collaboration with the Centre for International Trade and Business Laws at NALSAR University of Law and the World Trade Institute, brought together global experts to discuss the evolving dynamics of industrial policy in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. The event, held from January 17th to 19th, 2025, at NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, served as a crucial platform for deliberations on India’s industrial policy, the role of Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, green transition, inclusive sustainability, and resilient global supply chains.
The conference, themed “Navigating the Future: Industrial Policy and Global Competitiveness,” underscored the importance of aligning industrial policy with international trade norms while ensuring that economic strategies remain compatible with World Trade Organization (WTO) disciplines. With global supply chains facing disruptions and nations reassessing their trade policies in response to geopolitical shifts, the discussions focused on how India can strengthen its position in the global market while fostering domestic growth and sustainability.
Eminent speakers, including policymakers, academicians, and trade experts, shared insights on the resurgence of industrial policies and their alignment with WTO regulations. Prof. James J. Nedumpara, Head of CTIL, welcomed the participants and emphasized the growing relevance of green industrial policies in fostering technological advancements. In his presidential address, Prof. Srikrishna Deva Rao, Vice Chancellor of NALSAR University of Law, highlighted the critical role of legal frameworks in shaping effective industrial strategies. Former WTO Appellate Body members Shri Ujal Singh Bhatia and Professor Peter Vanden Bosche also emphasized the intricate linkages between trade and industrial policy, stressing the importance of a well-balanced approach to global economic participation.
The role of emerging economies in driving energy transitions and economic transformations was a key focus of the discussions. Shri Dammu Ravi, Secretary (Economic Relations), Ministry of External Affairs, pointed out that India has the potential to become a pivotal player in global critical raw material supply chains. He highlighted the need for value chain integration strategies that prioritize employment generation and long-term economic benefits within India.
A notable highlight of the conference was the plenary session featuring Shri Montek Singh Ahluwalia, Former Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, who provided a comprehensive analysis of the global shift from free trade to protectionism. He outlined how China’s economic rise and evolving U.S. trade policies have led to a re-evaluation of industrial policies worldwide. Stressing the need for India to adopt a transparent, cost-effective approach in implementing PLI schemes, he called for clear interventions in critical sectors while ensuring compliance with WTO regulations.
Distinguished scholars and trade experts such as Dr. Werner Zdouc, former Director of the WTO Appellate Body; Mr. Sumanta Chaudhuri, Head of Trade Policy at CII; Dr. Pritam Banerjee, Head of the Centre for WTO Studies; Prof. Henry Gao from Singapore Management University; and Dr. Alicia Gracia, Senior Fellow at Bruegel, engaged in thought-provoking discussions throughout the event. Their insights shed light on the complexities of international trade, investment policies, and the growing importance of sustainable industrial strategies.
Adding a significant milestone to the conference, CTIL launched its monthly investment law newsletter, Investment Law Compass: Navigating through the Global Investment Framework, designed to make investment law developments more accessible to professionals and enthusiasts. The newsletter will be available online at www.ctil.org.in, providing updates and insights on global investment trends.
In the valedictory address, Professor James J. Nedumpara reflected on the engaging discussions and the wealth of knowledge exchanged during the three-day event. He extended his gratitude to the co-collaborators NALSAR and WTI for their role in making the conference a resounding success. The event concluded on a hopeful note, with participants reaffirming their commitment to shaping India’s industrial policy in a way that is globally competitive, economically inclusive, and environmentally sustainable.
