How Will PM Modi’s Three-Nation Visit Boost India's Exports in West Asia and Africa?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi's visit to Jordan, Ethiopia, and Oman aims to enhance trade relations.
- Indian exporters expect growth in sectors like pharmaceuticals and textiles.
- The visit could lead to doubling bilateral trade with Oman.
- Jordan is a key gateway to the Middle East.
- Ethiopia presents significant opportunities in the African market.
New Delhi, Dec 12 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a significant three-nation tour to Jordan, Ethiopia, and Oman from December 15-18. This visit holds immense potential for boosting India's international trade and expanding its economic influence in West Asia and Africa, as highlighted by the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) on Friday.
The Prime Minister's trip to Jordan, Ethiopia, and Oman underscores India's dedication to enhancing economic and strategic ties with key allies in these regions. Amid global supply chain changes, strengthening these relationships will be vital for Indian exporters to tap into new markets, diversify trade routes, and develop enduring commercial ties, according to FIEO President S.C. Ralhan.
Ralhan pointed out that Jordan serves as a crucial gateway to West Asia and the broader Middle East. During the period from April to August 2025-26, bilateral trade between India and Jordan reached $1.2 billion, with exports amounting to around $461 million in just five months. Thus, fostering economic discussions with Jordan is expected to unlock significant opportunities for Indian exporters in sectors like pharmaceuticals, engineering, textiles, IT services, and agri-products, potentially increasing exports to $5 billion by 2030.
During the second phase of his tour on December 16-17, the Prime Minister will visit Ethiopia, a rapidly advancing economy and an essential partner for India in Africa. The FIEO chief mentioned that Ethiopia is a pivotal member of the African region and a significant ally in India's South-South cooperation. This visit is expected to significantly enhance trade, investment, and development partnerships. Indian exporters, particularly in automobiles, machinery, pharmaceuticals, and educational services, see vast potential in Ethiopia's growing market, where bilateral trade reached $550 million.
Ralhan further emphasized that Oman has consistently been one of India's most dependable economic partners in the Gulf. PM Modi's visit provides a prime opportunity to explore new trade, investment, energy, logistics, technology, food security, and MSME collaboration avenues. Enhancing the bilateral framework with Oman will have a direct positive effect on India's export sector, which has surpassed $4 billion.
As negotiations for a trade agreement with Oman near completion, this will give a significant impetus to double the bilateral trade and investment between the two nations.