The World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos has emerged as a significant platform for global economic dialogue, with India playing a central role in discussions, investment announcements and trade negotiations. The annual summit, taking place from January 19 to 23, has brought together world leaders, policymakers and top executives amid shifting geopolitical and economic dynamics.
India’s presence at Davos has drawn particular attention due to major developments on the trade and investment front. One of the most closely watched outcomes is the near conclusion of the long pending India European Union trade agreement. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed that negotiations are approaching a decisive stage, with the proposed agreement expected to cover nearly a quarter of global gross domestic product. Officials on both sides have highlighted supply chain resilience, strategic stability and market access as key pillars of the deal.
Investment commitments announced at the summit have further strengthened India’s position. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the signing of memorandums of understanding worth approximately Rs 16 lakh crore over two days, with projections of generating more than 15 lakh employment opportunities. Andhra Pradesh also secured a major investment, with Google committing ten billion dollars through Raiden Infotech India Limited, marking one of the largest technology related announcements at the forum.
Technology and artificial intelligence have been central themes at Davos 2026. Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw presented India’s vision of Industry 5.0, emphasising that the country aims to be a global architect of next generation technologies rather than a passive adopter. He highlighted India’s digital public infrastructure, skilled workforce and innovation ecosystem as key strengths driving AI adoption and development.
Global institutions have reinforced India’s economic outlook during the summit. International Monetary Fund Deputy Managing Director Gita Gopinath reiterated that India remains the fastest growing major economy in the world. She also encouraged continued domestic reforms and gradual tariff rationalisation to sustain long term growth and maintain investor confidence.
The forum has also seen strong participation from the Indian private sector, with more than 100 Indian chief executives attending the event. A high level ministerial delegation, including Ashwini Vaishnaw, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Pralhad Joshi and K Rammohan Naidu, has engaged in bilateral meetings and panel discussions aimed at strengthening economic partnerships.
On the global front, United States President Donald Trump is attending the summit for his third visit as President. His presence comes amid heightened international attention on US foreign policy priorities and broader geopolitical developments.
As Davos 2026 continues, India’s active engagement, investment announcements and progress on trade negotiations underline its growing influence in the global economic landscape. The outcomes of the summit are expected to shape policy decisions, business strategies and international partnerships in the months ahead.
