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GOVERNOR NIKKI HALEY AND AMBASSADOR NIRUPAMA RAO DISCUSS BUSINESS PROMOTION BETWEEN INDIA AND SOUTH CAROLINA

          The Ambassador of India, Nirupama Rao, visited South Carolina from 28th February 2012 to 1st March 2012. 

          During her visit to South Carolina, she was hosted by Governor Nikki Haley and Mr. Michael Haley, spouse of the Governor, at the Governor's Mansion in Columbia (Photo). The Governor and Mr. Robert Hitt, Commerce Secretary of the State of South Carolina had extensive discussions with the Ambassador on future cooperation between India and South Carolina.  The Governor who praised the role of the Indian American community in promoting India-US relations, was keen to expand trade contacts with India. Explaining the business-friendly atmosphere in the State and the existence of major industries like the BMW, Boeing, Michelin, a well developed Information Technology sector and Research and Development Centers, renowned Institutes of Higher Education and a major port like the Charleston Port, the Governor said that the State of South Carolina would welcome and would offer the required infrastructural assistance for Indian companies to establish themselves in South Carolina.  The Governor also expressed her willingness to host any Indian business delegation visiting the US for consultations.  Ambassador apprised the Governor of the state of bilateral relations between India and the United States and expressed the desire to expand the relationship between India and the State of South Carolina.  She suggested that India would like to avail of the experience of the State in the field of infrastructure development, education, research & development etc.  Informing the Governor of her popularity in India, she invited the Governor to visit India, which could pave way for Indian businesses, which are already established in 43 States of the United States, to also look at South Carolina as an investment and business destination.  The Ambassador and the Governor had a joint press conference on 29th February 2012, which can be accessed here

          Ambassador also visited Charleston Port and held detailed discussions with the Port authorities on the prospects of cooperation.  She met President Benson of Charleston College and interacted with the faculty and students.  She also met President Pastides of the University of South Carolina and addressed an audience of faculty and students including those of Indian origin as well as members of the Indian American community.  She also addressed business leaders and the Think Tank community at the World Affairs Council of Columbia on 29th March 2012, on the topic "India Today", explaining the opportunities in India for closer cooperation. On 1st March 2012, Ambassador toured the BMW factory at Greenville (Photo) and visited the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (CUICAR) in Greenville, where keen interest was expressed in building collaborative relationships with Indian automotive companies.

Imports from India Via South Carolina

Year

Value

(Million Dollars)

% Change

2009

459

23.36

2010

557

21.46

 2011

820

47.15

 

Source: Department of Commerce, Bureau of Census

 

·        Imports from India via South Carolina grew by 47.157% from $ 557 million during the year 2010 to $ 820 million during the year 2011. India ranks 9th in terms of US imports from different countries through South Carolina.   

Exports to India Via South Carolina

Year

Value

(Million Dollars)

% Change

2009

318

35.77

2010

491

54.21

 2011

619

26.19

Source: Department of Commerce, Bureau of Census

 

·        Exports from South Carolina to India grew by 26.19% from $ 491 million during the year 2010 to $ 619 million during the year 2011. India ranks as 7th largest destination of US exports through South Carolina. 

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