Gandhinagar, April 16 (NationPress) Gujarat plays a vital role in India's economy, contributing 8.3 percent to the nation's gross domestic product (GDP), alongside 18 percent of industrial output and 31 percent of total exports, as stated by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel during the launch of a three-day trade expo in the state capital.

During his address at the inauguration of the Gujarat Advanced Technology and Economy Expo (GATE) 2026, organized by the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Patel remarked, "The economic success of our state illustrates a development paradigm that intertwines trade with tradition, commerce with culture, and industry with entrepreneurship, all under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi."

This expo, taking place from April 16 to 18 at an exhibition center in Gandhinagar, covers 18,000 square meters and showcases over 16 sectors, such as automobiles, renewable energy, IT, pharmaceuticals, and textiles, with a keen emphasis on artificial intelligence and cyber security.

According to CM Patel, the expo, themed 'Gujarat Vision - Global Ambition', aims to create a platform for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and aspiring entrepreneurs to transition from local markets to global avenues.

He expressed optimism that such initiatives would bolster the industrial ecosystem of the state.

In reference to the successful Vibrant Gujarat summit, CM Patel noted that it has been instrumental in establishing Gujarat as "a global gateway to the future."

He highlighted that industry organizations like GCCI are crucial in shaping policies by providing essential feedback and have collaborated effectively with the state government in both planning and implementation of various initiatives.

"Gujarat is progressing in emerging industries, including green growth, renewable energy, electric vehicle production, and semiconductor manufacturing, aligning with the national mission of 'Make in India, Made for the World'," he emphasized.

CM Patel further pointed out that Gujarat is the first state to formulate a roadmap entitled 'Developed Gujarat @ 2047', founded on the principle of 'earning well, living well', contributing to the overarching aim of a developed India.

Sandeep Engineer, President of GCCI, mentioned that this event is a significant milestone towards enhancing industrial growth in Gujarat and realizing the vision of 'Viksit Gujarat to Viksit Bharat'.

"With approximately 610 exhibitors signed up and over 30,000 visitors already registered, we anticipate the total figure to reach 50,000 by the end of the expo," he added.