Andhra Pradesh to Become a Hub for Global Investments: CM Chandrababu at Davos

Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu is on a mission to bring global investments to the state. During his visit to the prestigious World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, the Chief Minister held crucial discussions with top executives of leading global companies, including Google Cloud, Petronas, and PepsiCo, to explore opportunities for collaboration and development in Andhra Pradesh.

Google Cloud Expansion in Andhra Pradesh

Google, which is actively designing its own chips for servers, has been requested by CM Chandrababu Naidu to consider establishing a design center in Visakhapatnam. In his meeting with Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian, the Chief Minister also proposed the setup of a manufacturing unit in Andhra Pradesh to integrate Google Cloud’s server supply chain.

He assured Kurian that Andhra Pradesh would extend complete support to make the state a central hub for server management services. Highlighting the state’s commitment to technological growth, he emphasized the ease of doing business in Andhra Pradesh.

Google Cloud, the world’s third-largest cloud service provider, already operates two cloud regions in India—Delhi and Mumbai. Recently, Google signed an MoU with the Andhra Pradesh government to establish a “Data City” in Visakhapatnam. Moreover, Google has partnered with the state to develop artificial intelligence (AI) applications and enhance skill development opportunities for local youth.

Petronas Eyes ₹15,000 Crore Investment in Kakinada

CM Chandrababu Naidu also held talks with Muhammad Taufik, President and Group CEO of Petronas, a Malaysian oil and natural gas company. Petronas is keen on investing in green hydrogen, green ammonia, and other sustainable energy solutions in India.

The company has set a target to produce 5 million tons of green ammonia annually by 2030 and plans to invest between ₹13,000 crore and ₹15,000 crore in a Kakinada-based plant. The Chief Minister invited Petronas to explore further investment opportunities in Moolapeta, which is emerging as a petrochemical hub, and in a Global Capability Center in Andhra Pradesh.

PepsiCo to Expand Presence in Visakhapatnam

In another key meeting, CM Chandrababu interacted with Eugene Willemsen, CEO of PepsiCo International Beverages, and Stephen Kehoe, Chairman of PepsiCo Foundation. PepsiCo, the world’s second-largest food and beverages company, already operates a bottling plant in Sricity, Andhra Pradesh.

The Chief Minister proposed the establishment of a Global Delivery Center in Visakhapatnam, alongside a PepsiCo Digital Hub, to further strengthen their presence in the state. He also suggested expanding PepsiCo’s Global Business Service Center operations to Visakhapatnam.

Additionally, CM Chandrababu recommended the setup of a Kurkure manufacturing unit in Andhra Pradesh and encouraged PepsiCo to collaborate with APCNF (Andhra Pradesh Community Natural Farming) to provide greater benefits to farmers through their supply chain initiatives.

Discussions with Bahrain Representatives

CM Chandrababu also met Hamad Al Mahmeed, a representative of the Bahrain Prime Minister’s Office, and Abdulla Bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, CEO of Mumtalakat, Bahrain’s sovereign wealth fund.

During the meetings, the Chief Minister outlined the state’s new industrial policies, which focus on promoting industrial growth, sustainability, and faster project approvals. He invited the Bahrain officials to invest in Andhra Pradesh, emphasizing the state’s efficient “Speed of Doing Business” model.

CM Chandrababu at Davos: Key Takeaways from the Davos Visit

  1. Andhra Pradesh seeks to collaborate with Google Cloud for setting up a design center and manufacturing unit in Visakhapatnam.
  2. Petronas is set to invest up to ₹15,000 crore in a Kakinada plant for green ammonia production.
  3. PepsiCo may establish a Digital Hub and expand its Global Business Service Center in Visakhapatnam.
  4. CM Chandrababu showcased Andhra Pradesh’s pro-business policies to attract investments from Bahrain.

With these high-level discussions, Andhra Pradesh is positioning itself as a global destination for investments in technology, green energy, and manufacturing.

Why Andhra Pradesh is a Preferred Destination for Global Investors

  • Ease of Doing Business: Andhra Pradesh is consistently ranked as one of India’s top states for its investor-friendly policies.
  • Strategic Location: The state offers excellent connectivity through its ports, airports, and transportation networks.
  • Focus on Innovation: Collaborations in AI, cloud technology, and green energy are key priorities for the state government.
  • Skilled Workforce: The state’s initiatives in skill development ensure a ready talent pool for industries.

CM Chandrababu Naidu’s proactive efforts at the World Economic Forum underscore Andhra Pradesh’s commitment to becoming a global investment hub in the coming years.

Bold Steps, Global Vision: Andhra Pradesh is setting a benchmark for attracting cutting-edge investments and fostering sustainable growth. The future is bright for the state under CM Chandrababu Naidu’s leadership.

Also read: Andhra Pradesh Global Leadership Center: A Vision for Industrial Competitiveness

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