At the 20th CII India–Africa Business Conclave, leaders, policymakers, and business visionaries from across continents came together to chart the future of one of the world’s most promising partnerships. Among the keynote voices was Mr. Sudarshan Venu, Chairman and Managing Director of TVS Motor Company Limited, who emphasised the unique moment India and Africa share in shaping a new global order.
Opening his remarks, Mr. Venu described the conclave as “a platform that truly symbolises the strength and depth of our enduring partnership.” He underlined that both regions, amidst globalisation and shifting geopolitics, stand at “a natural inflection point”—one where collaboration in emerging sectors such as digitalisation, artificial intelligence, and new-age industries can become catalysts for growth.
India Rising, Africa Emerging
Mr. Venu highlighted India’s trajectory as the world’s fastest-growing large economy with a clear vision toward Viksit Bharat 2047. From manufacturing to infrastructure, and from technology to financial services, India’s rapid transformation offers opportunities to extend capabilities and innovations to Africa.
At the same time, Africa is undergoing its own transformation. “With its vast population, abundant natural resources, and a rapidly emerging middle class, Africa is poised to be a global growth engine over the next two decades,” he said, stressing that India and Africa are uniquely placed to “write a new chapter of cooperation—one rooted in trust, shared prosperity, and resilience.”
Three Priorities for Collaboration
Laying out a framework for future engagement, Mr. Venu highlighted three strategic priorities that could shape the next phase of collaboration. First, he underscored that robust infrastructure remains the backbone of development, pointing out that Africa’s growing consumer base and manufacturing potential must evolve alongside infrastructure development to unlock opportunities at scale. Second, he emphasised the importance of delivering quality with affordability, reminding that Africa is not one market but many—diverse in cultures, regions, and consumer preferences—hence Indian companies must remain sensitive to these differences while ensuring very good quality at good value. Finally, he stressed that long-term success will depend on customisation and local relevance, as every country has its own unique needs and aspirations, and engagement must therefore be inclusive, localised, and impactful.
TVS Motor’s Africa Commitment
Reflecting on TVS Motor’s journey, Mr. Venu shared that Africa contributes over 25% of the company’s global revenue. TVS is the second-largest two- and three-wheeler brand on the continent, selling more than one million vehicles annually and operating 18 assembly facilities.
“Importantly, we employ and engage local talent extensively, reaffirming our belief in Africa’s future and our deep-rooted commitment to its people,” he said. But beyond commerce, TVS Motor seeks deeper cultural engagement. “We believe in immersing ourselves in Africa’s culture, understanding its consumers, and co-creating solutions that reflect local realities. This human connection is what will secure our long-term cooperation and shared success.”
A Partnership Beyond Transactions
Mr. Venu urged both regions to elevate the relationship beyond mere business. “I encourage all of us to look beyond transactions—to think of this as a partnership of equals, built on respect, trust, and shared destiny,” he said.
As India and Africa navigate a rapidly changing global landscape, the conclave reaffirmed that the bonds between the two regions go beyond trade and investment—they are about building a future together. As Mr. Venu aptly put it, this is a moment to “catalyse mutual growth and empower our shared aspirations.”
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