Bhopal June 6, 2026

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav on Saturday projected Madhya Pradesh as a growing gateway for global investment as the India-Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Trade and Investment Forum 2026 concluded in Indore. The event brought together representatives from 15 countries and more than 350 investors, diplomats, industry leaders and senior officials on a common platform. The forum focused on building partnerships in pharmaceuticals, automobiles, textiles, food processing and services. More than 50 companies from Madhya Pradesh participated in business-to-business and business-to-government meetings, opening fresh avenues for direct trade and investment.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Yadav said India is witnessing positive outcomes in trade and investment under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He described Indore as the economic capital of Madhya Pradesh and a city that reflects the legacy of Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar's vision and governance. The Chief Minister said the historical ties between India and Latin America go beyond trade. Despite the geographical distance, both regions share similar cultural values, traditions, music and vibrant tribal heritage. He said the forum would serve as a bridge for stronger economic cooperation and long-term partnerships.

Highlighting the growing economic relationship, Dr. Yadav said Madhya Pradesh's exports to Latin American and Caribbean countries reached nearly Rs 3,845 crore during 2025-26, registering a growth of around 19 percent. Pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, agriculture and manufacturing emerged as major contributors to this growth. He said Madhya Pradesh has earned the trust of global investors because of its rich biodiversity, mineral wealth, green energy potential and transparent governance. The state is now attracting investments in IT, electronics, renewable energy, automobiles, pharmaceuticals, textiles, defence manufacturing and food processing.

The Chief Minister also pointed to the state's strong infrastructure network. Madhya Pradesh has over five lakh kilometres of road connectivity, abundant land for industries and surplus power generation capacity. Nearly 30 percent of the state's electricity comes from green energy sources. Six major industrial corridors are also planned over the next five years. Dr. Yadav said Madhya Pradesh is uniquely positioned to become a reliable partner for countries such as Brazil, Peru and Guatemala in sectors ranging from engineering equipment and automobiles to agriculture and food processing. He noted that more than 45 percent of the state's startups are being led by women entrepreneurs, reflecting a changing economic landscape.

"Whoever comes to Madhya Pradesh becomes a part of it," the Chief Minister remarked, describing the state as a welcoming destination for investors and businesses. Global India Business Forum founder Jitendra Joshi called Madhya Pradesh one of India's most dynamic investment destinations. He said the forum aimed to strengthen cooperation across the Global South and create new opportunities for trade and economic growth.

Adding to the state's growing international profile, Indore is also set to host the BRICS Agriculture Conference later this month. Officials believe the event will further enhance Madhya Pradesh's role in global economic and agricultural cooperation. As discussions concluded, the message from Indore was clear: Madhya Pradesh is positioning itself not just as the heart of India, but as an emerging hub for international trade, investment and innovation.