India urges Commonwealth to diversify supply chains, boost local trade

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has urged Commonwealth partners to adopt strategies that reduce economic vulnerability through supply chain diversification and localised distribution networks. Addressing Commonwealth heads of government and business leaders at a breakfast meeting in St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda, on Wednesday, Jaishankar stressed that member nations must prioritise trusted, shorter supply chains to strengthen collective economic security.

Jaishankar highlighted that enhanced connectivity corridors and trade partnerships within the Commonwealth would benefit all member economies. He advocated for increased efforts to build local distribution capabilities across nations, positioning intra-Commonwealth commerce as a vehicle for sustainable growth and mutual prosperity.

Capacity building and workforce training emerged as key priorities in Jaishankar's address. The minister recommended that Commonwealth partners invest in training programmes to provide member states with expanded options for collaboration and development, creating a more resilient and flexible economic ecosystem.

Acknowledging India's role within the Commonwealth framework, Jaishankar noted that the Indian diaspora and business community spread globally represent a valuable asset for advancing the grouping's economic agenda. He also underscored the significance of digital public infrastructure as a foundation for improved governance across member nations, positioning technological advancement as integral to Commonwealth development objectives.