Katherina Reiche: “India’s Growth Story Is Impressive,” Sees Scope to Double Trade

Germany’s Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy, Katherina Reiche, has praised India’s impressive economic growth and called for deeper trade and investment ties between the two countries, highlighting significant untapped potential in their bilateral economic partnership.

Speaking about India’s development trajectory, Reiche noted that millions of people have emerged from poverty over the past decade, while the country’s middle class continues to expand rapidly. She expressed confidence that India would sustain its growth momentum in the coming years, praising the country’s pace, dedication to growth and ambition to take a leading role in global markets.

Reiche highlighted the strong foundation of India-Germany economic relations, noting that Germany is India’s largest trading partner within the European Union. The two countries traded goods worth approximately €31 billion in 2025.

However, she said the current trade volume falls short of the potential of two major economies. Pointing out that India does not rank among Germany’s top 20 trading partners, she emphasised that this gap represents an opportunity for further economic cooperation rather than a reason for pessimism.

The German minister called for greater collaboration to expand bilateral trade, encourage investment and strengthen industrial partnerships. She stressed the need for both countries to work more closely together and create new opportunities for businesses and industries.

Reiche expressed optimism that India and Germany could at least double their existing trade volume through a shared commitment to deeper economic engagement and stronger commercial ties.

Her remarks underscore the growing importance of India-Germany economic cooperation, with both countries seeking to unlock new opportunities in trade, investment and industrial development.