India as a Global Business Partner: Historical Legacies, Contemporary Opportunities

India’s role in the global economy is undergoing a remarkable transformation. As one of the world’s fastest‑growing major economies, India has become a vital strategic partner for the UK and Europe—not only in trade, but also across technology, manufacturing, finance, services, and emerging industries.

Yet today’s opportunities cannot be understood without looking to the past. India’s commercial links with the UK and Europe stretch back centuries, shaping economic systems, cultural exchanges, institutional frameworks, and patterns of global integration. These deep historical foundations continue to influence contemporary markets and the evolving business landscape.

This event brings together leading SOAS scholars to explore how historical legacies intersect with modern economic realities, and what this means for organisations engaging with India today.

What to expect

A thought‑provoking discussion that will:

• Illuminate India’s evolving role as a key global business partner, with particular relevance for the UK and Europe
• Blend historical insight with contemporary economic analysis to show how long-standing trade relationships continue to shape today’s opportunities
• Highlight India’s rapid growth trajectory and its strategic importance across sectors including technology, manufacturing, finance, and services
• Examine the impact of centuries of commercial exchange on current and future modes of business engagement
• Offer practical insights for businesses, policymakers, and researchers seeking to strengthen their collaboration with India in a shifting global environment

This session is ideal for professionals working across international trade, strategic partnerships, policy, corporate leadership, finance, legal services, and global market development.

Event speakers

• Opening talk: Dr Alberto Asquer
• Main talks: Dr Roy Fischel & Dr Jaideep Oberoi
• Closing remarks: Dr Mariano Errichiello

Outcomes

Whether you’re exploring new markets, strengthening existing India‑UK partnerships, or seeking deeper understanding of India’s economic trajectory, this event will equip you with:

• Fresh perspectives grounded in world‑leading SOAS research
• A nuanced understanding of India’s historical and modern business ecosystems
• Insights into emerging opportunities across multiple industries
• Strategic context for informed decision‑making and long-term engagement

(Banner image credit: Will Goodman, Unsplash)