PM GatiShakti

The seminar, which was on the first day of the TIWG gathering, was used as a forum for delegates to share and concur on major priorities. The overall themes of discussion were:

The Logistics Role in Enlarging Global Value Chains (GVCs): The seminar highlighted the necessity of new, efficient logistics and infrastructure to ensure the free flow of goods and services. India promoted its flagship projects such as the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan and the National Logistics Policy, aiming to develop a multi-modal infrastructure for improved connectivity.

Integrating Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) into World Trade: A central emphasis was given to empowering MSMEs, which are crucial players in the global economy. The agenda was on how to link these enterprises more strongly to GVCs and address issues such as accessing information and financing. India's initiative on an Action Plan to Establish a Meta Information Interface for MSMEs was a highlight of the meeting.

Digitalization of Trade Documents: The possibility of reducing costs, improving efficiency, and increasing transparency through paperless trade systems was the focus for the delegates. The seminar resulted in suggestions to prepare High-Level Principles for the Digitalization of Trade Documents.

Key Speakers and Exhibitions

The seminar and a co-located exhibition were opened by key officials such as Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal, and Secretary of DPIIT, Rajesh Kumar Singh.

In his speech, Shri Barthwal emphasized the requirement for "forward-looking infrastructure" to keep pace with changing trade patterns and the reorganization of Global Value Chains. The exhibition displayed India's efforts such as the Unified Logistics Interface Platform and the PM GatiShakti plan, indicating the country's dedication towards developing the next-generation of infrastructure.

Broader Context and Outcomes

The seminar and the Kevadia three-day TIWG meeting were part of India's G20 agenda, whose theme was "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" ("One Earth, One Family, One Future"). The proposals and discussions at this meeting played a significant role in determining the final Ministerial Communiqué adopted by the G20 Trade and Investment Ministerial Meeting held at Jaipur in August 2023.

The deliverables of the Kevadia meet were action-oriented and also had a clear emphasis on solving the Global South's challenges and inclusive growth. Outside of the formal sessions, delegates also got the chance to see Gujarat's cultural heritage, with a guided visit to the Statue of Unity and a cultural evening organized by the state government.