Malaysia, a key member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the ASEAN Chair for the year 2025, played host to many international delegations including the one from Federation of Indian Chambers, Commerce and Industries (FICCI) as the country plays a crucial role in the economic framework of the region.
This multisectoral delegation participated in the meeting which marked a renewed commitment to strengthening economic cooperation between the two nations, emphasizing trade relations, market access, and technology collaboration. Given the growing global demand for semiconductors and India’s aspiration to become a key player in the global chip manufacturing ecosystem, the delegation discussed potential collaborations in the semiconductor industry. India is actively promoting investments in semiconductor fabrication, packaging, and research and development (R&D). Malaysia, with its established semiconductor industry and expertise in manufacturing and supply chain logistics, expressed interest in partnering with Indian companies on this front. Possible areas of collaboration include joint ventures, technology transfer, and supply chain integration to boost India’s semiconductor ambitions.
India and Malaysia have strong complementarities in the service sector, particularly in IT, digital economy, financial services, and tourism. The discussion explored opportunities for deeper cooperation, especially in digital trade, cybersecurity, fintech, and IT-enabled services. Malaysia’s growing role in the ASEAN digital economy aligns with India’s vision of becoming a global leader in IT and digital transformation, paving the way for increased collaboration in emerging technologies. The discussions concluded on an optimistic note, with both sides expressing confidence that the meeting would accelerate the resolution of bilateral trade issues and contribute to expanding trade and investment opportunities.
Meeting with the Vietnam Deputy Minister of Industry andTrade:
During the meeting on the sidelines of the ASEAN Meeting, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Mr. NGUYEN SINH NHAT TAN discussed that bilateral trade ties have been steadily carried out on the foundation of a long-standing traditional friendship, a comprehensive strategic partnership, and the attention of senior leaders of both countries. Cooperation has been pursued in a spirit of “trust, practicality, effectiveness, and comprehensiveness,” consistent with existing agreements. Head of Delegation Mr. Ullas Kamath also shared that Vietnam has been a very prospective trading partner especially in the last few years with tourism increasing to the country and renewed interest in the business community for many sectors and invited the Vietnam side to India.
Mr K Ullas Kamath Chairman, FICCI Karnataka State Council presented the memento to Mr. NGUYEN SINH NHAT TAN , the Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry of Vietnam during the meeting.
Meeting with Delegation from the Philippines
The Meeting with the Philippines delegation was very fruitful which highlighted the recent visit of the President of Philippines to India and the positive role that the country will play in the upcoming chairmanship of the ASEAN in 2025. During the state visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to India in August 2025, both nations signed a Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership, expanding cooperation in defence, maritime security, and space technology.
