Trade Relations – EU Chambers Marks 34 Years of Strengthening India-Europe Business Ties
Trade Relations – The Council of EU Chambers of Commerce in India commemorated its 34th Foundation Day alongside the EU-India Business Excellence Awards 2026 during a grand event held on May 27 at The Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai. The gathering highlighted more than three decades of efforts aimed at enhancing commercial partnerships, investment opportunities, and institutional collaboration between India and the European Union.
Distinguished Guests Attend Celebration
The event attracted diplomats, government officials, corporate executives, business representatives, partners, and award participants from various sectors. It provided an opportunity to acknowledge organisations and individuals whose contributions have played a significant role in advancing economic ties between India and European nations.
The proceedings began with the National Anthem, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Dr. Rajesh Gawande, Secretary for Protocol, FDI, Diaspora and Outreach and Chief Protocol Officer of the Government of Maharashtra, attended as Chief Guest. Among the Guests of Honour were Erik af Hallstrom, Consul General of Finland, and Sven Ostberg, Consul General of Sweden.
Chamber Highlights Its Longstanding Contribution
Delivering the welcome address, EU Chambers President Rajeev Sharma reflected on the organisation’s longstanding efforts to encourage stronger business engagement between European and Indian enterprises. He reiterated the Chamber’s focus on creating opportunities that support mutual growth and cooperation.
A special audiovisual presentation showcased the organisation’s 34-year journey, outlining its role in promoting commercial dialogue and facilitating business partnerships between stakeholders from both regions.
Focus on Future Economic Opportunities
During their addresses, the representatives from Finland and Sweden spoke about expanding prospects for Indian companies in European markets. They highlighted the growing importance of innovation-driven partnerships, sustainability initiatives, environmental transition strategies, and the potential benefits of a future EU-India Free Trade Agreement.
Addressing attendees, Dr. Gawande emphasized the importance of closer cooperation between India and the European Union amid changing global economic conditions. He also underlined Maharashtra’s position as a major destination for European investment, citing strengths in infrastructure development, advanced technology, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and industrial expansion.
Recognition for Leadership and Contributions
As part of the anniversary celebrations, former presidents of EU Chambers were honoured for their leadership and contributions to the organisation’s development over the years. The Chamber also acknowledged the independent jury members responsible for evaluating entries for the business awards.
The EU-India Business Excellence Awards 2026 recognised organisations demonstrating excellence in innovation, sustainability, workforce engagement, and value creation across the India-Europe business ecosystem. The assessment process was conducted by knowledge partner B-cube Consulting in association with an independent jury panel.
Awards Across Multiple Industry Segments
Participating companies were evaluated through a structured scoring framework that examined four major areas: value creation in EU-India business relations, innovation and future preparedness, sustainability and social impact, and employee engagement initiatives.
Awards were presented across sectors including banking and financial services, consulting, education, legal services, manufacturing, logistics, startups, and hospitality. Among the top honours announced during the evening, Allcargo Group received the Overall Winner recognition, while thyssenkrupp Uhde India Private Limited was named Overall Runner-Up.
Cultural Showcase and Networking Opportunities
The formal segment concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Robin Banerjee, Senior Vice President of EU Chambers. He expressed appreciation to dignitaries, diplomatic representatives, sponsors, partners, jury members, participating organisations, and the Chamber’s team for contributing to the success of the event.
The evening also featured a cultural performance led by renowned choreographer Sandip Soparrkar along with Ratan Pratap and their team. Guests enjoyed a blend of Latin, ballroom, and Bollywood dance presentations. A raffle draw added to the festivities before the event concluded with a networking dinner, allowing business leaders and diplomats to exchange ideas and discuss future collaborations.
The celebration reinforced the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to strengthening commercial engagement, promoting investment, and expanding business opportunities between India and the European Union.