PHD Chamber of Commerce Kerala chapter to focus on MSME development in the state
The Kerala chapter of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) was launched on Saturday with an aim to promote a favourable business environment in the state, reported The New Indian Express. The new chapter, which seeks to encourage investments and policy advocacy, was launched by Alphons Kannanthanam, Union Minister of State for Information Technology and Tourism.
It promises to expand the chamber’s presence in South India and focus on the development of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Kerala. The new chapter will be PHDCCI’s 17th in India. Vivek Seigell, Principal Director, PHDCCI, said, “We are optimistic and excited to contribute to the economy of God’s Own Country and create international linkages. MSMEs play an immense role in contributing to the country’s GDP, which is why the chamber wants to support the sector here.”
According to PHDCCI, Kerala has great potential for industrial expansion in various areas. The chamber aims to sensitise industries for their effective participation in creating economic activities with the prospects of job creation. It aims to do this by “way of mainstreaming it with the rest of India Inc.” EV Shiril, Chairman, PHDCCI Kerala chapter, said, “We are launching the state chapter by contributing Rs 10 lakh to the Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF). For its maiden venture, the 1.5-lakh industry-strong CCI aims to host a delegation of East-Asian countries to showcase the investment avenues in the state.”
The move comes roughly two months after the Kashmir chapter of the PHD Chamber of Commerce launched a web portal for MSMEs in an attempt to bring progress and growth in the sector. The CCIs have a long history and are considered among the oldest chambers in India. Established in 1905, the Punjab, Haryana and Delhi CCI is the oldest and is one of the four chambers the Centre invites for pre-budget consultations.