Kolkata, 7th May 2024: The Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has appointed Mr. S. K. Wadhawan, a distinguished business magnate, as its Chief Representative for Kuwait, marking ICC’s strategic move to enhance economic ties.

The ICC’s expansion in Kuwait aims to foster stronger economic collaboration between India and Kuwait. With Mr. Wadhawan’s leadership, ICC anticipates achieving innovative growth and shared prosperity. India and Kuwait have a diverse relationship characterized by economic collaboration, cultural interactions, and a substantial Indian community residing in Kuwait. It is expected that bilateral trade growth between the two nations will rise in the coming years.

Mr. Wadhawan, a pioneering entrepreneur is well-known both in the Gulf and in India, and the founder and CEO of the well diversified Samara Group. Mr. Wadhawan, migrated to Kuwait in late fifties as a fresher, founding Samara Auto from humble beginnings and transforming it into a global automotive powerhouse. Recognized for his astute business acumen, he chaired the Indian Business Council-Kuwait, fostering economic ties between Kuwait and India. Honored with prestigious awards, he also leads the Kuwait Chapter of “Arsha Vidya Bharati”, promoting Indian values through education. His philanthropic endeavors extend to providing aid during natural disasters and the Covid-19 pandemic, showcasing his commitment to both business excellence and humanitarianism.

In his new role, Mr. Wadhawan is expected to engage with corporations, Government agencies and industry organizations to boost trade and investment between India and Kuwait. India and Kuwait enjoy long-standing, multifaceted relations deeply rooted in strong people-to-people connections. In 2021-22, the two countries celebrated 60 years of diplomatic ties. Commercially, India consistently ranks among Kuwait’s top ten trading partners. With Mr. Wadhwan’s leadership, it is anticipated that there will be more trade interactions between the two nations.

Ameya Prabhu, President of ICC, expressed delight in the appointment, stating, “We are happy to have Mr. Wadhawan as ICC’s Chief Representative for Kuwait. His extensive experience and pivotal role in building economic ties between India and Kuwait makes him an invaluable leader. Under his leadership, we look forward to catalyzing robust partnerships and bilateral investment, propelling India-Kuwait trade beyond the US$13 billion milestone in the coming years.”

Mr. S. K. Wadhawan shared his enthusiasm, saying, “I am honoured to represent the Indian Chamber of Commerce as its Chief Representative in Kuwait. Leveraging my experience, I am committed to enhancing trade and investment opportunities, strengthening bonds between corporations, Government agencies and industry organizations. I look forward to contributing to the success of both great nations in the flourishing India-Kuwait economic partnership.”