The Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC) stands at the forefront of advancing trade and investment across the Commonwealth. Founded in 2014, CWEIC is dedicated to driving economic growth by expanding business opportunities, facilitating strategic partnerships, and championing policies that promote enterprise and innovation among its member nations.
Serving as a crucial link between governments and the private sector, CWEIC harnesses the Commonwealth’s extensive network of diverse markets and cultures. With over 150 Strategic Partners, CWEIC is well-positioned to drive collaboration and unlock new growth opportunities. The Council’s activities include hosting high-profile events, delivering strategic insights, and providing a platform for business leaders to connect and collaborate. By concentrating on key areas such as technology, infrastructure, and sustainable development, CWEIC supports 56 member countries in achieving their economic goals and tackling global challenges.
Through its efforts, CWEIC plays a pivotal role in fostering economic integration and creating business opportunities across the Commonwealth, thereby contributing to inclusive and sustainable economic development.
In an exclusive conversation with The Interview World at the Commonwealth Champions Conference, organized by ASSOCHAM, Rosie Glazebrook, Chief Executive of CWEIC, highlights her organisation’s role in cultivating a favourable environment for trade and investment among Commonwealth member states. She discusses India’s rising prominence as a leading economy within the Commonwealth, emphasizes the need for a unified protocol to streamline trade and investment processes, and outlines her long-term vision for CWEIC. Here are the key insights from her revealing interview.
Q: In an increasingly interconnected global economy, how do trade and investment contribute to shaping a conducive ecosystem? Additionally, what role does the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council play in fostering this environment?
A: Trade and investment play a crucial role in uniting the private sector and underscoring the necessity of cross-border collaboration. At the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, we are committed to illustrating how we facilitate trade and investment between India and its Commonwealth partners. Today’s discussions with our African partners revealed significant potential in countries such as Cameroon, Nigeria, Ghana, and Rwanda. We are dedicated to showcasing these opportunities to Indian businesses, emphasizing the advantages of engaging in cross-border ventures. Our mission is to demonstrate the substantial benefits and potential for growth that come from international cooperation and investment, while also supporting those who are committed to pursuing these endeavours.
Q: In what ways do you envision India emerging as a leading business economy within the Commonwealth, and what factors will contribute to this progression?
A: India’s pivotal role within the Commonwealth is underscored by its large market, rapid technological advancements, and robust export potential. The country’s expertise and ability to forge trilateral partnerships enhance its strategic significance on the global stage. To fully capitalize on these advantages, we encourage the Indian business community to actively engage with opportunities presented by organisations like ours. By embracing these opportunities, Indian businesses can build essential connections with partners in emerging markets, fostering growth and innovation. Leveraging these strategic relationships will position India as a key player in expanding international trade and investment.
Q: As a leading business organisation, how do you envision the implementation of a unified protocol among the 56 Commonwealth countries to streamline investment and trade, and facilitate easier business interactions within the Commonwealth?
A: A robust Commonwealth standards network is one opportunity to explore to drive this initiative. We are committed to enhancing quality infrastructure to reduce trade barriers and streamline business operations. CWEIC uses its convening power to highlight opportunities and the benefits of sharing expertise and best practices across the Commonwealth, and this is led by strategic partners such as the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS), British Standards Institution (BSI), and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), accenting the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Our objective is to develop this collaborative approach which will foster a more efficient and accessible trade environment, benefiting businesses across the Commonwealth and driving economic growth.
Q: How do you envision the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council evolving over the next decade to become a leading force in the global economy?
A: The Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC) harnesses formidable convening power and specializes in fostering trade and investment. We excel at bridging the gap between large, established economies such as India, Nigeria, and the UK, and smaller, developing nations. By bringing together these diverse business communities, CWEIC facilitates valuable connections and opportunities. Our role is pivotal in ensuring that all 56 Commonwealth countries, regardless of their size or economic status, have access to growth prospects.
With many Commonwealth countries experiencing above-average economic growth and anticipating substantial demographic changes in the coming decade, we are optimistic that the strength of the Commonwealth will only continue to grow. We are committed to ensuring that our Strategic Partners are well-positioned to capitalize on the opportunities that arise.
