Australia eyes tourism, pharma deals in Gujarat

On one of its first visits to Gujarat, a delegation from Victoria state of Australia is looking to establish business tie-ups in sectors like tourism, education and pharmaceuticals with firms in the state. A delegation of about 212 companies from the Australian state are on a "business discovery visit" to seven major cities in India including Ahmedabad, Pune, Hyderabad and Chennai.

"It is for the first time that such a large size of delegation is visiting India, especially Gujarat from the Victorian state. Led by our premier of Victoria state, which is an equivalent to an Indian chief minister, the delegation is looking at possible tie-ups in sectors like tourism, education, food processing and pharmaceuticals," said Geoffrey Conaghan, Commissioner to India, Victorian Government, Australia.

A delegation of over 250 individuals including representatives from 212 firms met several Gujarat-based industrialists on Monday as part of their visit.

Apart from engaging in business talks and potential business deals, the delegation is also looking to participate for the first time in the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Summit (VGS) 2013. "We had business participation from Australia at the previous VGS but it would be for the first time that Victorian Government would be participating in the event next year," said Conaghan.

"The current visit is one of a business discovery. While we expect certain deals to be signed, we believe we will have future visits again to the state of Gujarat. As a result, we expect more deals to be signed during VGS 2013," he added.

The delegation is looking at exploring sectors like tourism, construction, food and beverages among others.