Interview with Tom Reiner, Regional Director, Indo-German Chamber of Commerce Kolkata.
1. Please tell us about your recent visit to Shillong.
I am delighted to share insights from our recent visit to Shillong from March 24 to 26, 2025, where I had the privilege of being part of the esteemed German delegation alongside Dr. Philipp Ackermann, the German Ambassador to India and Bhutan; Ms. Barbara Voss, Consul General of the German Consulate General Kolkata; Ms. Suchismita Roy from Bayer Crop Science; Ms. Dubey, Economic and Press Officer of the German Consulate; and Denise Eichhorn, Head of ProRecognition and Hand in Hand for International Talents at the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce (IGCC).
Our participation in the 7th Act East Business Show, initiated by the Meghalaya government’s "Invest in Meghalaya" initiative, proved to be a pivotal moment for fostering bilateral business relations. The event featured a significant address by Dr. Ackermann and included a German Business Roundtable at the Meghalaya Secretariat, where over 40 participants engaged in fruitful discussions on potential collaborations between Meghalaya and Germany. A particularly memorable moment was my meeting with Chief Minister Conrad Kongkal Sangma, where we explored the promising avenues for long-term sustainable cooperation between the German industry and the state of Meghalaya.
2. What are some of the promising investment opportunities in Northeast India?
The Northeast presents a wealth of investment opportunities that the German delegation found particularly compelling. Our discussions highlighted potential sectors such as renewable energy, data centers, and the promotion of Meghalaya as a prime tourist destination for German travellers drawn to its breathtaking nature and rich cultural heritage. Moreover, we recognized the unique products of Meghalaya, including exquisite handicrafts and health-oriented organic spices like turmeric and pepper, which align perfectly with the preferences of the lifestyle-conscious German consumer. The Indo-German Chamber of Commerce (IGCC) is committed to facilitating these collaborations, ensuring that both German companies and local stakeholders can explore and harness these opportunities effectively.
3. Can you share some insights on Indo-German partnerships in sustainability and skilled migration?
Sustainability and skilled migration are indeed cornerstones of Indo-German partnerships. During our visit, we were fortunate to engage with a group of enthusiastic young students, alongside Ms. Voss and Ms. Eichhorn, showcasing pathways to live and work in Germany. The interest shown in job opportunities in Germany across various sectors, including mechatronics, electrical engineering, nursing, and hospitality, underscores the potential for skill exchange and development. Our Hand in Hand for International Talents project is designed to support this initiative, helping individuals be placed with German companies and accompanies them on their migration journey to Germany. Meghalaya boasts a technically skilled, English-proficient young workforce that is highly sought after by German employers. Strengthening Indo-German cooperation in skilled migration could create a mutually beneficial opportunity for both sides.
4. What role does the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce (IGCC) play in economic growth?
The IGCC aims to play a pivotal role in supporting the economic growth of the Northeast. We are dedicated to promoting bilateral trade, ensuring that Meghalaya gains visibility among the German conscious consumer. In the near future, we anticipate facilitating delegations from Germany to Meghalaya and vice versa, creating avenues for business collaboration and industry engagement. Our extensive network and services are at the disposal of both German companies and local enterprises eager to establish meaningful partnerships.
5. Any closing thoughts?
In closing, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Meghalaya government for their warm hospitality and exceptional organization that made the German delegation's visit so successful. I am genuinely impressed by the various potential areas of cooperation we explored, and I eagerly look forward to seeing our industry and cultural bonds deepen. The Indo-German Chamber of Commerce (IGCC), founded in 1956, remains committed to fostering these connections through our offices in India and Germany, ensuring that both nations can benefit from our collaborative efforts.
