India to remain world’s fastest-growing economy for next 20 years, says Piyush Goyal – Firstpost

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has said India will continue to remain the world’s fastest-growing major economy for the next two decades, driven by strong fundamentals, manufacturing growth, and rising global investor confidence.

Speaking at the Citi India Conference 2026 in Mumbai, Goyal said India has repeatedly demonstrated the ability to transform global challenges into opportunities and has emerged stronger during periods of economic uncertainty.

“India will continue to be the world’s fastest-growing economy for over two decades into the future,” Goyal said, adding that the country’s policy adaptability and long-term economic vision have strengthened its position as a preferred destination for trade, manufacturing, business, and investments.

The minister said global companies that placed long-term bets on India have benefited significantly from the country’s growth journey. Highlighting examples of Hyundai and British construction equipment maker JCB, Goyal said these companies entered India early and are now witnessing the rewards of their confidence.

Referring to JCB’s India journey, he noted that the company now manufactures in the country and exports products to nearly 130 nations while also catering to the expanding domestic market.

“Hyundai and JCB bet on substance over noise,” Goyal said, adding that their success reflects India’s growing manufacturing capabilities and its emergence as a global production hub.

The minister said India is no longer viewed only as a market of 1.4 billion consumers but increasingly as a base for manufacturing products and services for the world.

Goyal also highlighted India’s expanding trade partnerships, stating that the country has signed nine free trade agreements (FTAs) in the last three-and-a-half years covering 38 developed economies.

He said these agreements create new opportunities for Indian exports, talent, and investments while giving India access to products and technologies required for future growth.

“The patient investors with India have gained big time. The returns have rewarded conviction,” Goyal said.

The minister added that India’s long-term economic outlook continues to create significant opportunities for global investors looking beyond short-term volatility.