AP to be made electronics manufacturing hub

Hyderabad, April 17 (INN): On the last leg of China visit, the delegation of Andhra Pradesh Government held a series of meetings with various companies in Shanghai.

The delegation held a meeting with TCL Corporation, Chinese multinational electronic company that manufactures, develops, designs and sells television sets, mobile phones, air conditioners, washing machines, refrigerators and small electrical appliances.

The TCL Corporation expressed interest in coming to Andhra Pradesh and exploring investment opportunities in the state.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu briefed the delegates various strengths the state holds and his intention to make Andhra Pradesh an electronics manufacturing hub. He assured that the government will provide all necessary resources like land, water and power required for setting up a manufacturing unit.

Meeting with Trina Solar Company

Later, the government delegation held a meeting with Trina Solar Company which informed the Chief Minister that they are exploring possibilities of setting up manufacturing unit of solar power panels in the state.

The Chief Minister asked the company to identify a suitable location for the facility. He inquired if the company is looking for a location nearby port for export purposes or serve the domestic market of India.

He also asked the business delegation of Trina to stay in touch with the infrastructure and secretaries of the government to facilitate them with essentials and finalize the details. 'If everything can be finalized ahead of PM Modi's visit to China, a MoU can be signed in his presence,' CM added.

Indian Ambassador to China Ashok K. Kantha and the Consul General of Shanghai Naveen Srivastav were also present at the meeting.

Meeting with Jiangsu Provincial Construction Company

Nanjing-based construction giant Jiangsu Provincial Construction Company met the government delegation.

Vice-Presidents Shen Zhi and Dai expressed interest to visit the state in May and explore opportunities. Jiangsu Company holds the credit of building the landmark bridge over the river in Shanghai city.

The Chief Minister said that it is a historic opportunity for Andhra Pradesh to get involved with Jiangsu in the construction of the capital city. 'We want to build iconic buildings in Andhra Pradesh and Amaravathi', Chief Minister added.

Meeting with JA Solar Holdings, Co., Ltd.

JA Solar Holdings, Co., Ltd. met the government delegation and said that they were keen to set up solar plants in Andhra Pradesh.

President of JA Solar Xie Jian mentioned that they are looking for a long-term involvement in manufacturing for Indian and International market. As a start-up, they informed the Chief Minister that they are planning to explore 500MW plant.

Clearing their apprehensions over employing skilled labour, the Chief Minister clarified that the state has excellent source of human resources. He also informed the delegation that the state has put in place Skill Development Corporation. 'Setting up a manufacturing unit now will give you the first mover advantage,' CM added.

JA Solar Holdings is the world's largest solar cell producer. They design, develop, manufacture and sell solar cell and solar module products.

In a meeting with another Solar based company, Chief Minister Sri N. Chandrababu Naidu emphasized on the market trends in India that are favourable for the Company.

He asked the company to zero in on the details so that an MoU can be signed when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits China. The delegation sought information about the tax structure in the country.

The Round Table Meeting

The delegation later attended a third round table meeting in Shanghai on 'Business opportunities in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India.'

Indian Ambassador to China Ashok K. Kantha briefed the members of the round-table meeting the resources Andhra Pradesh holds and its potential to attract investors.

He lauded the Chief Minister's efforts in developing Cyberabad and expressed confidence in replicating best development models for the new state. ' Naidu believes that there is a synergy between Andhra Pradesh and Shanghai's achievements,' Kantha added.

He emphasized on various opportunities Andhra Pradesh holds for business companies based in China. He extended assistance to the businessmen from the Indian embassy and Consul General.

Addressing the meeting, Director General of Shanghai Commerce Commission, Ms. Shang Yuying mentioned that Shanghai has emerged as an important hub in India and China's relationship.

Stating that the economies must collaborate closely, she added that India and China are important players in the world economy. She also expressed interest in being a sister-state with Andhra Pradesh in Urban design. She added that they will contribute the knowledge in the state's endeavor to build a world-class capital.

The Chief Minister said that he is happy with the Chinese companies are showing to invest in Andhra Pradesh.

Stating that the relations between India and China are conducive, he mentioned that any activity in these two countries will have a direct impact on the world. 'This is my second visit to Shanghai in 20 years. Your speed, scale and skill are amazing' the CM added.

He also presented the demographic strength of India and briefed the members various opportunities the state holds for investments. 'China has always been an inspiration for me,' he said.

He also envisioned the state's aim to emerge as the best state in India by 2029 and best state in the world by 2050. He added that the government has clearly laid out industrial policy, solar and wind policy and transparency in administration.

Stating that he has brought in a new system to clear all approvals within 21 days, he emphasized on creating a conducive climate for investors. He also invited Chinese companies to be partners in the capital construction.

He mentioned to the members that he aims to develop the state as a logistics hub for Southeast Asia and make it a gateway to India.

Stressing on constructing best-in-class transport system in the state, the Chief Minister added that all railway stations and bus stations will be modernized. 'My vision is to Make in India; Made in Andhra Pradesh,' he added.

Chinese Academy of Scientific Research sought information about collaboration in Scientific Research.

Andhra Pradesh secretary (industries) S.S. Rawat clarified that the state is a hub for various educational institutions and research organizations. He added that they welcome proposals for collaboration.

Later, several MoUs signed between the government delegation and Chinese companies.

The Chief Minister also held a brief meeting with Shanghai Party Secretary Han Zheng and discussed various opportunities in Andhra Pradesh and sought his co-operation.