Bengaluru, Karnataka, India: India’s large market, skilled workforce, and fast-growing technology sector offer strong opportunities for collaboration that align with British Columbia’s strengths in life sciences and technology. A senior delegation from British Columbia, led by Premier David Eby, has focused on expanding trade, technology, and innovation ties with India while steering clear of political disputes, aiming to protect the province’s economic stability amid U.S. trade uncertainty.

Midway through their six-day visit, Eby and his team advanced key partnerships with government and industry leaders in Bengaluru, India’s major innovation hub. Talks centered on investment, innovation-driven cooperation, and long-term collaboration, resulting in a letter of intent between British Columbia and Karnataka to work together across life sciences, biotechnology, medical technology, medical devices, and digital health.

The mission has drawn some criticism due to strained Canada–India relations following allegations linked to the 2023 killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Eby said he supports the judicial process and stressed the need for justice, while emphasizing that economic engagement remains vital. He also noted progress on tackling extortion-related crimes in British Columbia through enhanced Canada–India law enforcement cooperation.

Speaking in Mumbai, Eby said British Columbia cannot remain idle as global trade pressures threaten living standards, pointing to India’s rise as a major global economy. Trade Minister Ravi Kahlon highlighted that B.C. exports to India reached $1.3 billion in 2024, the highest share among Canadian provinces, and said stronger ties with Karnataka would create new opportunities for innovation, investment, and growth.

The visit supports British Columbia’s Look West strategy and broader trade diversification plan, with discussions spanning technology, life sciences, mining, and energy, including LNG projects. The delegation remains in India until January 17, with further meetings planned in New Delhi and Chandigarh to deepen political and business engagement.