India Trade Mission Expands Investment and Partnerships for B.C.

Key Points:
Why is India a strategic partner for British Columbia? India’s scale and rapid economic growth create strong demand for energy, materials and technology. Premier David Eby’s January 2026 India trade mission showcased B.C. as a reliable partner for trade, investment, and innovation across the energy, critical minerals, forestry and technology sectors.

• Focus: Meetings in New Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chandigarh on trade diversification and foreign direct investment (FDI).
• Strengths: B.C. is Canada’s western economic gateway with stable governance, abundant natural resources and Asia-Pacific access.
• Opportunities: LNG, hydrogen, critical minerals supply chains, sustainable wood products and tech collaboration.

From Jan. 9 to 18, 2026, Premier David Eby led a trade mission to India to deepen economic ties, advance exports and investment, and position British Columbia (B.C.) as a long-term partner.

The mission included meetings with senior government leaders, global companies and institutional investors at a pivotal time in India’s economic growth. Meetings took place in New Delhi, Mumbai and Chandigarh, with a subset of meetings in Bengaluru led by Ravi Kahlon, B.C. Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth.

As India moves toward becoming the world’s third-largest economy within the next decade, the visit positioned B.C. as a reliable, long-term partner for trade diversification and investment.

British Columbia as a Strategic Gateway between Canada and Asia-Pacific Markets

Throughout the mission, Premier Eby, Minister Kahlon and their delegation highlighted B.C.’s role as Canada’s west coast gateway, with direct access to Asia-Pacific markets. They also emphasized that B.C. has abundant natural resources that can support India’s rapid growth, stable governance and a competitive business environment.

Government-to-government meetings focused on expanding trade, attracting foreign direct investment and exploring collaboration in clean energy, critical minerals, forestry, technology and agri-food. These discussions advanced long-term economic cooperation and reinforced B.C.’s role as a reliable partner for global growth.

Business meetings and roundtables with Indian companies explored opportunities in liquefied natural gas (LNG), hydrogen, clean energy, critical minerals, metals processing, forestry products and advanced technologies.

In 2024, India was B.C.’s fifth-largest export market, receiving 2.3% of the province’s commodity exports. The mission reinforced B.C.’s long-term role as a reliable trade and investment partner for India.

Key British Columbia Opportunities for Indian Markets

B.C. offers a broad range of opportunities that align with India’s priorities in energy security, industrial growth and sustainability.

Energy Security and Clean Energy Investment Opportunities in British Columbia

B.C. is a major producer of natural gas with growing LNG export capacity. The province’s North American west coast location, established infrastructure, and strong environmental and regulatory frameworks position it as a trusted partner for long-term energy needs. The province is also developing hydrogen and clean fuel opportunities, supported by abundant clean electricity and a commitment to sustainable energy development.

Critical Minerals Supply Chains and Responsible Resource Development

B.C. is a key supplier of critical minerals used in clean technologies, manufacturing and infrastructure. The province has opportunities in 19 of Canada’s 34 critical minerals. Streamlined permitting processes, access to clean power and advanced geological data support secure and diversified global supply chains while maintaining high environmental and social standards.

Sustainable Forestry and Wood Products for Global Construction Markets

Sustainable forestry and value-added wood products are another strong area of opportunity. B.C. is internationally recognized for its certified forest management practices and consistent product quality. The province’s wood products are used in construction, furniture, interiors and engineered applications, meeting international demand for sustainable materials.

Technology, Innovation and Research Collaboration Opportunities

Technology and innovation are central to B.C.’s global trade and investment strategy. The province is home to a diverse technology ecosystem spanning digital technologies, clean tech, life sciences and advanced manufacturing.

B.C.’s research institutions, skilled workforce and innovation infrastructure support collaboration in research, commercialization and product development. These strengths align with India’s expanding technology sector and demand for scalable, innovative solutions.

Trade and Invest BC: Connecting People, Markets and Opportunities

The trade mission included cultural and community activities that highlight the strong cultural and economic ties between B.C. and India. These relationships build trust and support long-term trade and investment.

Trade and Invest BC plays a key role in facilitating these connections. Through its global network, the organization supports international companies by providing market intelligence, in-market expertise and introductions to government, industry and innovation partners across British Columbia.

By connecting people, markets and opportunities, Trade and Invest BC helps international businesses navigate market entry, expansion and long-term growth in British Columbia.

To learn more about trade and investment opportunities in British Columbia, follow Trade and Invest BC on LinkedIn and X for updates and insights from our global network.