Kerala Industries Minister P.K. Kunhalikutty on Tuesday, 28 July sent a clear signal to the investment community that the state's industrial policies would remain intact despite the recent change in government, declaring that while ministries may come and go, policies will endure. Addressing an industry consultation convened by the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC) in Thiruvananthapuram, the Minister reaffirmed that all projects launched under the Invest Kerala initiative would proceed as scheduled.

Three Key Initiatives Under the 100-Day Programme

Kunhalikutty outlined three flagship measures the government intends to roll out as part of its 100-day programme: a Chief Minister-led Investment Advisory Council, the Invest Kerala Cell under KSIDC, and Kerala Desks in major global business hubs. The overseas desks are proposed for Dubai, London, New York, Singapore, and Tokyo, with a focus on channelling investment from the Malayali diaspora. The Minister added that industry feedback would be incorporated before the new measures are formalised through executive orders and legislative action.

Ease of Doing Business at the Centre of the Agenda

Reiterating the government's commitment to improving the business climate, the Minister said Ease of Doing Business reforms would receive the highest priority. An Investment Promotion Board and the proposed Investment Advisory Council would provide strategic direction to industrial development. Kunhalikutty noted that investor grievances had declined significantly owing to better technology and infrastructure, and pointed to Kerala's progress in information technology and emerging sectors as evidence of the state's readiness.

'Kerala is now widely regarded as one of the most suitable destinations for starting businesses and making investments. The state is the go-to destination for industries in India now,' he said.

Shift From Remittance Economy to Investment-Led Growth

The Minister framed the broader ambition as a structural transformation — moving Kerala away from its traditional dependence on remittances toward an investment-led economy. He stressed that investments would be welcomed regardless of political affiliation. 'Investments will be welcomed irrespective of political affiliations, whether they come from supporters of the ruling party or the opposition,' Kunhalikutty said. He also highlighted that strengthening skill development in technology and emerging sectors could position Kerala as one of India's most important investment destinations.

What Industry Leaders Are Asking For

Industry representatives at the consultation raised several demands, including the creation of a state land bank for industries, statutory status for KSIDC, time-bound regulatory clearances, improvements to the K-SWIFT portal, clarity on labour code implementation, and streamlined licensing procedures. These asks reflect persistent structural concerns that investors say continue to weigh on the ease of doing business in the state, even as the government signals a renewed push for industrial growth.