India’s strong growth prospects, expanding infrastructure and rising international credibility are increasingly strengthening its position as an attractive destination for global investors, experts said on the sidelines of the Kautilya Economic Conclave 2026.
The three-day gathering brought together economists, policymakers and experts from across the world to examine major challenges facing the global economy, including geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions, energy security, climate risks and the changing international economic order.
Swedish economist Erik Berglof said the quality and international participation at the conclave had improved significantly since its inception, reflecting the growing importance of the platform in global economic discussions.
Against a backdrop of heightened uncertainty, Berglof said conversations around economic resilience were particularly relevant as countries grapple with risks affecting energy supplies, international trade and global supply chains.
India, he noted, has maintained strong economic momentum since the Covid-19 pandemic, with its growth prospects continuing to attract international attention.
At the same time, Berglof cautioned that governments face the challenge of balancing continued economic support with fiscal sustainability. Measures introduced to protect households and businesses from global disruptions can provide important short-term relief, but prolonged support could increase pressure on public finances.
For India, maintaining the pace of economic expansion while managing fiscal risks will remain an important policy priority as the country seeks to strengthen its position in the global economy.
Climate change was another major theme at the conclave. Juliano Assuncao, executive director of the Climate Policy Initiative, described climate change as one of the most significant shared risks confronting the global economy.
He stressed that climate-related challenges cannot be addressed by individual countries alone and require greater international cooperation. India and Brazil, he said, can play an important role not only as countries exposed to climate risks but also as major contributors to global solutions.
New Zealand economist Professor John Gibson said the Kautilya Economic Conclave has evolved into an important forum for dialogue between researchers and policymakers. Its discussions now extend beyond India to wider economic developments across the Asia-Pacific region and the global economy.
Japan’s Institute of Geoeconomics Director Kazuto Suzuki highlighted the growing intersection of economics, geopolitics and geoeconomics. These forces are increasingly influencing investment decisions, business strategies and the direction of international economic relations.
The discussions at the conclave underline the changing considerations shaping global investment flows. Alongside growth and infrastructure, investors are increasingly assessing geopolitical stability, supply-chain resilience, energy security, climate risks and the credibility of economic institutions.
Against this backdrop, India’s expanding infrastructure base, large domestic market and sustained economic growth are enhancing its appeal to international investors. The country’s ability to maintain momentum while addressing fiscal, climate and geopolitical challenges will be crucial to converting that growing confidence into long-term investment.
