Kerala is rapidly emerging as a preferred destination for industries powered by technological innovation, supported by strong infrastructure, progressive policies, and a renewed entrepreneurial ecosystem, Finance Minister KN Balagopal said at the Industrial Mega Summit during IIIE 2026.
“Kerala has evolved as an ideal destination for industries advancing through technological innovation in tune with the times,” said Finance Minister K. N. Balagopal while inaugurating the Industrial Mega Summit at the India International Industrial Expo (IIIE) 2026.
Addressing over 10,000 members of the Kerala State Small Industries Association (KSSIA) from all 14 districts of Kerala, the Minister highlighted the state’s transformation in industrial culture and entrepreneurial outlook.
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The three-day expo was organised by KSSIA and Metro Mart at the Adlux International Convention Centre, Angamaly, with the cooperation of the Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Kerala, and the Ministry of MSME, Government of India.
It was announced at the closing ceremony that the third edition of the India International Industrial Expo will be held in Kochi from January 21 to 23, 2028.
Balagopal said Kerala is witnessing a positive shift in its industrial ecosystem every year. He stressed that sustainable growth requires industries to modernise both processes and products.
Highlighting the state’s high-quality roads, airports, and ports, he noted that Kerala’s infrastructure is among the best in the country. Improvements in Ease of Doing Business rankings, he added, are attracting investors back to the state.
He also pointed out that well-organised expos and industry meetups offer valuable insights to entrepreneurs and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to social security for industrialists.
The event featured a keynote address by Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan, who emphasised the need to refine state-building regulations to provide flexibility and relaxations for MSMEs.
He said the government welcomes a formal proposal from KSSIA and suggested finalising reforms through direct interactive sessions with members.
Recognised as South India’s largest international industrial exhibition, the expo featured nearly 500 stalls showcasing around 50,000 products and attracted more than 15,000 visitors over three days.
A cheque for ₹10 lakh was presented to VJ Kurian, husband of the late entrepreneur Annamma Kurian, under the KSSIA Social Security Scheme.
The expo hosted media conclaves, seminars, panel discussions, buyer–seller meets, and vendor development programmes to promote global market expansion.
A Kerala Pavilion, special help desks for machinery manufacturers and banks, and participation by companies from India and countries including Japan showcased advanced industrial technologies and solutions. Several industry leaders and officials were present at the closing ceremony.
Published: 19 Jan 2026, 10:24 am IST
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