Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi on 18 October 2026 called for a structured, long-term mechanism to connect Gujarat's businesses with the Gujarati diaspora in Japan, with a specific focus on generating new market access and economic opportunities for the state's micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The call came during a community interaction at the historic Kobe India Club as part of his Japan visit under the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit initiative.

What Sanghavi Proposed

Addressing members of the Gujarati and Indian communities in Kobe, Sanghavi stressed that diaspora engagement must evolve beyond ceremonial exchanges. 'Engagement with the overseas community should go beyond occasional meetings and translate into long-term economic partnerships,' he said.

He called for a local platform to facilitate direct interaction between Gujarat-based industries and potential Japanese business partners, noting that current interactions are largely limited to welcoming delegations to Gujarat once every two years. A structured framework, he argued, could convert existing goodwill into concrete commercial outcomes.

Role of the Gujarat Industries Department and Indian Embassy

Sanghavi indicated that the Gujarat Industries Department and the Indian Embassy would coordinate to provide institutional support for these partnerships. 'The Gujarat Industries Department and the Indian Embassy would coordinate efforts and provide the necessary support to facilitate such partnerships,' he said.

He also highlighted the trust built by the Indian community across Kobe and other parts of Japan through decades of hard work, calling this goodwill a strategic asset for Gujarat's industrial outreach. 'This goodwill and experience could help Gujarat's industries establish connections with Japanese businesses, explore new markets and identify areas for collaboration,' Sanghavi added.

Community Response and Historical Context

Community leaders and members present at the gathering welcomed the Deputy CM's outreach and expressed commitment to deepening trade, business, and cultural ties with Gujarat. The interaction took place at the Kobe India Club, which has been functioning since 1904, underscoring the deep historical roots of the Indian community in the city.

Before attending the community event, Sanghavi also visited a nearby Jain temple and offered prayers, acknowledging the cultural and religious connections that bind Gujarat's diaspora to their homeland.

Broader Push for Overseas Economic Linkages

The proposed engagement framework is part of Gujarat's wider effort to leverage its overseas diaspora networks to strengthen international business ties. Notably, Japan represents a significant opportunity for Gujarat's MSMEs given the bilateral trade potential in manufacturing, technology, and industrial components. 'Sustained cooperation could lead to tangible economic outcomes and mutually beneficial business collaborations between Gujarat and Japan,' Sanghavi said.

Sanghavi also acknowledged the efforts of Gujarati families abroad to maintain homeland ties while contributing to community development and social welfare in their countries of residence. With a formal structure yet to be finalised, the next steps will likely depend on follow-through from both the Industries Department and diplomatic channels.