The Australia India Business Council (AIBC), the leading organization dedicated to enhancing trade and investment between Australia and India, is pleased to announce the election of Deepak-Raj Gupta OAM as National Chair and Amritha Zacharia as National Vice Chair, each serving a two-year term.
Established in 1986 by the governments of Australia and India, AIBC has been instrumental in fostering bilateral relations through its chapters across six Australian state capitals and its presence in India.
The newly elected leaders bring a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to advancing the Australia-India economic corridor. Their leadership is anticipated to further strengthen the Councilโs role in promoting business opportunities and cultural ties between the two nations.
Mr Gupta commenting on his election stated โAs National Chair, I am deeply honoured by the trust you have placed in me to lead the Australia India Business Council (AIBC) into its next chapter. Over the years of active involvement with AIBC, I have witnessed its evolution into a trusted platform for fostering meaningful connections and creating mutual opportunities. Together, we will ensure that AIBC continues to thrive as a cornerstone for our membersโenabling collaboration, driving growth, and unlocking new opportunities. I am committed to working closely with each of you to amplify the voice of our members, forge impactful partnerships, and further strengthen the Australia-India relationship.โ
Ms Zachariah commented on her election โ I am privileged to take on the role of National Vice Chair, committed to driving AIBCโs mission of strengthening the Australia-India partnership. My focus is to enable AIBC to deliver high-impact opportunities for membersโfrom small businesses to large enterprisesโthrough purposeful partnerships and actionable innovation. With a clear emphasis on measurable outcomes and commercial growth, I aim to bring fresh perspectives, foster deep engagement, and build a dynamic platform that empowers our members to play a pivotal role in advancing the Australia-India business relationshipโ
AIBC extends its sincere gratitude to outgoing National Chair Jodi McKay and National Vice Chair Ravneet Pawha for their exemplary service and dedication. Under their stewardship, the Council achieved significant milestones, coinciding with pivotal developments in Australia-India relations which included the signing of the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), the strengthening of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and enhanced collaboration through the Quad. The period also highlighted the growing contributions of the Indian diaspora, expanded cultural exchanges, and AIBCโs role in fostering bilateral trade and business opportunities, underscoring the deepening ties and mutual growth between the two nations.
Reflecting on her tenure, Ms. McKay stated, โIt has been an honour to lead AIBC during such a transformative period in the Australia-India relationship. I am confident that the new leadership will continue to build on our achievements and further strengthen the ties between our two great nations.โ
Ms Pawha said โAs the Council embarks on this new chapter, it remains steadfast in its mission to facilitate meaningful dialogue and partnerships that drive mutual growth and prosperity for Australia and India.โ