India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world and is expected to be the seventh-largest emerging market and developing economies (EMDC) in the coming years. The country has seen significant GDP growth and is expected to touch a GDP growth rate of 7% by FY2023.
These economic factors provide significant opportunities for international businesses in India. The Indian government has improved and eased market entry procedures and collaborations. Such processes further provide new momentum to India’s business opportunities for foreign investors.
Why India is a Strategic Choice for International Business Expansion
In 2022, India received the highest-ever FDI inflows of $84.8B in services. With the Indian economy developing fast with clear support from the government, the businesses can enter the market smoothly. Additionally, the majority of the business segments in India are still in development providing a high chance for an international business opportunity to grow.
The Indian government provides clear and positive economic and infrastructural growth attributes, such as Goods and Services Tax, Digital transactions, Land acquisition, and Tech Parks. These implementations led to the development of local and international businesses in the market. Perhaps, the primary factor that interests more investors in looking into the country are;
Constant Market Development
India is the second most populous country in the world, with a population of over 1.3 Billion. The country is home to a number of high-net-worth individuals. Additionally, there is a continuous growth of internet users and improved connectivity. Thus, constant market changes and development lead to better international business aspects.
Furthermore, the market growth is predicted to double in recent years with more GDP in the country. As more consumers are looking into quality, attracting more global businesses in India.
Growing Technological Aspects
India is transforming its industries with a technological revolution and growth. The Informational technology sector has seen significant growth within the past years. According to NASSCOM, the Indian IT Sector is to touch $245B by FY23. The IT sector provides 7.4% of the country’s GDP.
Also, Indian businesses are adopting hybrid business models to reach a broader customer base and enhance their customer services and connectivity. All these contribute to the appealing investment opportunity for international businesses, with companies from Europe, North America, and the Asia Pacific region.
Cost-Effective Workforce
According to the Global Labor rate, India is known for having one of the most refined, dedicated, and affordable workforces worldwide. With a huge availability of skilled and experienced workforce, the country stays an attractive destination for foreign investors.
With manufacturing plants, innovation parks, tech support centers, and research centers, global enterprises can outsource their requirements and take advantage of the high-quality human capital in India.
Developing Manufacturing Sector
The manufacturing sector of India is expanding at a fast pace. Furthermore, state governments are providing amazing incentive opportunities for investment opportunities in India for foreign investors. The incentives include customizable business parks, affordable real estate, robust intellectual property protection, and other corporate benefits. All of these result in opportunities for international business in India.
There are a number of sectors that are progressing with amazing success in India. Let’s take a look at the business opportunities and sectors on such.
Exploring International Business Opportunities and Sectors for Foreign Investors in India
Undoubtedly, India is a rapidly growing country with the second-highest population and opportunities for new and innovative businesses. Developing an international business in India can be a suitable option as the country offers a vast market with diverse needs, providing opportunities for businesses. Few sectors in India have been exhibiting phenomenal growth potential over the years. Let’s have a look.
Information Technology Sector:
The country’s Information technology sector is strengthened with highly skilled professionals and favorable business opportunities, like easy market entry, affordability of workforce, and more. India has tech hubs in most of the cities to expand the business, some of such cities are Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Delhi (NCR). A number of organizations have entities in such hubs, providing them extensive exposure to the growing demand for business.
EdTech Sector
According to a report by KPMG, the education sector in India is expected to reach $144 billion by 2030, driven by a growing demand for quality education and the adoption of new technologies. There is a significant innovation opportunity for digital classes in the Indian education system. The young generation of India is more into the quality of education, thus creating a number of business opportunities in India.
Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Sectors
The biotechnology sector of India is the third largest in the Asia-Pacific region and is a rapidly growing sector in the market. There is a progressive growth in this sector due to the initiative of the government toward research and development (R&D). Investors can explore opportunities in areas such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and healthcare IT.
Automotive Sector
The fourth-largest producer of automobiles in the world is India. According to the Market Analysis report, the automobile industry is to grow up to 11% from 2020 to 2027. Furthermore, the automobile industry received a cumulative equity FDI inflow of US$ 33.53 billion from April 2000 to June 2022. This sector provides a number of opportunities for business in the country.
Agricultural Sector
India is expected to surpass China in population growth by 2027, with more development toward urbanization. Furthermore, this population growth is likely to increase the demand for agricultural goods in the country. This will provide significant development in terms of feeding the population and promoting sustainable agriculture practices. Therefore, providing such practices can be a good investment for a business.
Food Product Sector
With the growing population and demands, the dietary habits of the Indian middle class are evolving. Due to this, there is a significant affluence that leads to pressure on the agricultural sector. It results in the growing demand for fresh food items such as dairy products, fruits, vegetables, grains, and more.
Infrastructure Sector
In India, both the road and rail infrastructure sector is growing exponentially, creating more opportunities for the modernization of infrastructure processes. India holds the rank of the world’s third-largest rail network, and the government has prioritized its progression with rapid urbanization.
E-Commerce Sector
Indian E-commerce is the fastest-growing e-commerce market, with 51% annual growth. There is a rapid growth since 2019 due to digitization and constant demand by all classes of the population. This represents the investment opportunities in India for foreign investors in the Indian market.
Renewable Energy Sector
India has set ambitious targets to achieve 450 GW of renewable energy installed capacity by 2030 for the development of renewable energy, with a focus on solar and wind power. Recently, lithium deposits were found in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The government has introduced several incentives and schemes, including tax incentives, subsidies, and preferential tariffs, to create business opportunities in India.
Tourism Sector
India is well known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and growing economy. India received 677.63 million domestic tourist visits in 2021, says Indian Tourism Statistics 2022. The percentage has increased by 11.05% from 610.22 in 2020. With the growing demand, there have been multiple opportunities for traveling, accommodation, and dining experiences. Therefore, providing more investment opportunities in India for foreign investors.
Global Companies Growing in India
Here are some of the global companies that are booming their business in India.
- Amazon India: Amazon India, a subsidiary of Amazon, started its business in India in 2013. Today, Amazon India is one of the largest e-commerce retailers in India.
- Netflix India: Netflix entered India in the year 2016 and has since gained a significant presence in the country. Netflix India is one of the most successful OTT platforms in India.
- Uber India: Uber entered the Indian market in 2013 and became one of the leading ride-hailing company in the country. Furthermore, Uber is expanding its business to food delivery with Uber Eats.
With all these in consideration, to expand a business opportunity in India, it is crucial to be aware of the regulatory processes for foreign investment.
Legal and Tax Considerations for International Businesses in India
In India, the Foreign Direct Investment policy and Foreign Exchange Management Act 1999 (FEMA) regulates all the frameworks for Foreign Investment. Further, this enables the Reserve Bank Of India to enforce regulations concerning foreign exchange in accordance with the Foreign Trade Policy of India.
The policy binding an individual or a company to an international business is non-debt financing. While considering any investment opportunity in India, there are some set of regulatory considerations that the investor should know.
Ways of Foreign Investment in India
There are two ways of foreign investment in India: the Government Route and the Automatic Route.
Government Route
Under this, the investor must take approval from Government. The procedure to obtain government approval for foreign investment are;
- A proposal to submit online to DPIIT along with supporting documents.
- Upon receiving the proposal, DPIIT sends it to the relevant ministry and the RBI to assess its compliance with FEMA provisions.
- Once the process is complete, the government will grant for foreign investments.
Automatic Route
Under this, there is no need for government permissions for foreign investment. However, there are specific requirements that are important to follow.
Regulation on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in India
According to the government, the following specific set of regulations on FDI is to be followed strictly.
- FEMA
- Companies Act
- Foreign Trade (Development And Regulation) Act,1992
- Securities And Exchange Board Of India Act,1992 And Sebi Regulation
- Arbitration And Conciliation Act, 1996
- Income Tax Act,1961
- Civil Procedure Code, 1908
- Indian Contract Act,1872
- Foreign Investment Policy ( Current Policy 2020-2021)
- Competition Act 2002
Other than the regulatory forms for investments, it is important to stay aligned with the labor laws of India. The labor law has specific guidelines on minimum wage, overtime, and Employee benefits in India.
Simple Tips for Foreign Investors to Success in the Indian Market
With all the regulations considered, the role of International Business in India could be more complex. Although, with a few tweaks can sort the processes in no time. Here are some tips to consider to ease up the process and create a successful business opportunity.
- Market research: Understanding the market orientation and developments before establishing a business is important. Therefore, thorough market research, including customer preferences, cultural nuances, and regulatory requirements, is required.
- Legal and regulatory frameworks: India has strong regulatory considerations for foreign investment opportunities. Therefore, understanding the legal framework to mitigate penalties is essential.
- Local Talent: Hiring local talents can help understand the in-depth market standards and pin-points. Additionally, Hiring remote employees in India can help with the same.
- Technology Leverage: India has a rapidly growing technology sector, and leveraging digital technologies can help to reach a broader spectrum. Thus helping in creating business opportunities.
- Partnering with Local Organizations: Partnering with a local organization or entity can help with all the abovementioned aspects. They can also help navigate the local market and build a strong contacts network and payroll in India.
How to Start an International Business in India
Starting a business in India can be challenging with all the cultural diversity and local labor laws. However, thorough planning and a clear understanding of labor laws can help in setting up businesses in India. Multiplier can help you enter new markets, fast-track growth, and avoid the hassle of the incorporation of the new entity. We are available in more than 150 countries and growing. We can also mitigate the challenges of expanding business opportunities in India with our EOR and entity support. Ensure outsourcing in India effortlessly with the best EOR provider. Talk to our experts now!
