India and Mali have taken a major step towards strengthening their economic partnership by launching the inaugural India–Mali Forum for the Promotion of Exports, an initiative aimed at expanding bilateral trade, encouraging investment, and fostering long-term strategic cooperation. The two-day forum, held in Bamako under the theme “Reinforcing Trade and Strategic Partnerships,” brought together government representatives, business leaders, and industry stakeholders from both nations to explore new avenues for commercial engagement.
The event was jointly organised by the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Mali, the Embassy of India in Bamako, and the Malian Agency for the Promotion of Exports (APEX-Mali). It was presided over by the Prime Minister of Mali’s Transition Government, Major General Abdoulaye Maïga, reflecting the high-level commitment of both countries to expanding economic ties.
The Indian delegation was led by Amit Kumar, Joint Secretary (FT-Africa), Department of Commerce, Government of India, while India’s Ambassador to Mali, Dr. N. Nandakumar, participated throughout the proceedings. Around 30 Indian business leaders representing diverse sectors also attended the forum, highlighting growing interest among Indian companies in the West African market.
Bilateral Trade Registers Strong Growth
India and Mali have witnessed a remarkable increase in bilateral trade over the past year. Trade between the two countries crossed US$326.61 million during FY 2025–26, representing a 55 per cent increase compared to the previous financial year. The growth reflects the strengthening commercial relationship and the expanding opportunities for businesses on both sides.
Mali exports a range of products to India, including raw cotton, finished leather, cashew, sesame, gum arabic, and lead. In return, India supplies pharmaceuticals, cotton fabrics, bicycles, and two- and three-wheelers to the West African nation.
A key factor driving this momentum has been India’s Duty-Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) Scheme, which provides preferential market access to least developed countries, including Mali. Officials noted that while Mali’s total global exports are valued at around US$4 billion, the untapped export potential in the Indian market alone is estimated at nearly US$3.96 billion, indicating significant opportunities for future trade expansion.
Focus on Business Partnerships
Beyond policy discussions, the forum emphasised direct business engagement. Delegates visited Indian and Malian exhibition stalls showcasing products and technologies, including Sonalika tractors and vehicles manufactured by Mahindra and Tata Motors.
The programme featured extensive Business-to-Business (B2B), Business-to-Government (B2G), and Government-to-Government (G2G) meetings. These interactions focused on identifying commercially viable projects and building partnerships across sectors such as renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, textiles, mining, and automotive manufacturing.
The objective was to convert discussions into concrete business collaborations, investments, and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), creating new opportunities for companies from both countries.
Investment Opportunities Take Centre Stage
On the second day of the forum, the Indian delegation held discussions with Mali’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Moussa Alassane Diallo. During the meeting, APEX-Mali presented a series of “Ready-Made Business Plans” designed to facilitate immediate investment by international companies.
The delegation also met the Prime Minister of Mali’s Transition Government, reaffirming the commitment of both governments to strengthening economic cooperation and promoting private-sector participation.
Officials identified several sectors with strong potential for future collaboration. These include cotton and textile manufacturing, mining, renewable energy, agro-processing, shea processing, pharmaceuticals, and social infrastructure covering healthcare and education.
Addressing Trade and Investment Priorities
The discussions also covered policy issues aimed at improving the business environment. Mali expressed interest in India’s support for digitising its Certificate of Origin system, a move expected to streamline export procedures and improve trade facilitation.
The Malian side also sought faster registration of approved Indian pharmaceutical products, which could improve access to affordable medicines in the country.
India, meanwhile, requested Mali to reconsider the existing ban on shea-nut exports, citing the importance of the commodity for Indian industries. The Indian delegation also underlined the need to ensure the safety of Indian nationals and safeguard investments operating in Mali.
Building a Long-Term Economic Partnership
The inaugural India–Mali Forum concluded with both countries reaffirming their commitment to developing a durable and mutually beneficial economic partnership. Mali highlighted its ambition to position itself as a strategic investment hub for West Africa under its long-term Vision Mali 2063 development roadmap.
As a follow-up to the forum, the Malian government announced that it will organise a dedicated investment forum on 3–4 December 2026, where additional bankable projects will be presented to global investors.
The successful launch of the India–Mali Forum marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations. By combining policy dialogue with business networking and investment facilitation, both nations have laid the foundation for stronger trade, greater private-sector collaboration, and broader economic cooperation in the years ahead.
Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
