France is looking to strengthen economic cooperation with India by promoting greater engagement between micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from both countries. Officials from French trade and diplomatic institutions have identified sectors such as healthcare, luxury retail, construction, logistics and agriculture as key areas for future collaboration, highlighting the growing potential for bilateral business partnerships.
The emphasis on deeper MSME ties was discussed during an interactive session organized by the Merchants’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), where representatives from the French Embassy in India, Business France and the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry shared their vision for expanding commercial cooperation.
Speaking at the event, Estelle David, Director-South Asia at Business France, said that her organization is actively working to bring more French MSMEs to India and create opportunities for collaboration with Indian enterprises. She emphasized that India continues to be an attractive destination for French businesses seeking growth and long-term partnerships.
According to David, sectors such as healthcare, food processing and luxury retail offer promising opportunities for French and Indian companies to work together. She noted that Business France is focused on helping smaller businesses from France establish connections in India, enabling them to access new markets while also supporting Indian firms interested in international collaboration.
The French government views India as a strategic economic partner, and MSMEs are increasingly becoming an important component of that relationship. Officials believe that stronger links between smaller businesses can drive innovation, technology transfer and job creation in both countries.
French Consul General in Kolkata Thierry Morel reaffirmed France’s commitment to expanding economic relations with India. He pointed out that cooperation between the two nations already extends across several important sectors, including manufacturing, clean energy, aerospace and digital technology.
Morel highlighted the significance of West Bengal in France’s engagement strategy, describing the state as a key gateway to Southeast Asia. He noted that West Bengal possesses several advantages, including a skilled workforce, strategic connectivity and growing industrial capabilities. These strengths make it an attractive destination for French investment and business partnerships.
He further stated that the French delegation’s objective is not only to explore business opportunities but also to build lasting relationships between French enterprises and stakeholders in West Bengal. Such partnerships, he said, could contribute significantly to regional economic development while strengthening broader India-France ties.
Adding to the discussion, Florent Mangin, Chief of Service for Economic Affairs at the French Embassy in India, expressed confidence in West Bengal’s current business environment. He said that the state has emerged as a promising destination for investment and commercial expansion, attracting interest from French companies across various sectors.
Mangin identified construction, logistics, agriculture and information technology as areas where French businesses see significant potential. He noted that ongoing economic reforms, infrastructure development and improving business conditions are creating new opportunities for international collaboration.
The focus on MSME partnerships comes at a time when India and France are seeking to diversify and deepen their economic engagement. While large corporations have traditionally played a major role in bilateral trade and investment, policymakers increasingly recognize the contribution of smaller enterprises in driving sustainable growth and innovation.
Industry experts believe that enhanced collaboration between Indian and French MSMEs could lead to greater technology exchange, increased market access and stronger supply-chain integration. Such partnerships can also help businesses from both countries adapt to emerging global trends, including digital transformation, sustainability and green technologies.
As both nations continue to strengthen their strategic and economic partnership, the renewed emphasis on MSME cooperation is expected to open new avenues for trade, investment and innovation. With growing interest from French businesses and supportive institutional frameworks, sectors ranging from healthcare and retail to logistics and agriculture are likely to witness increased collaboration in the coming years.
Also Read: BHAVYA Portal Launched to Accelerate Development of 100 World-Class Industrial Parks Across India
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]
