Chandrababu Naidu's Singapore visit strengthens investment prospects for Andhra Pradesh

The Hindu

10 hours ago

In a significant step toward deepening international partnerships and boosting foreign investments, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu met Indian High Commissioner to Singapore Shilpak Ambule on the first day of his official visit.
The discussions centered on transformative opportunities across sectors such as defence, electronics, aerospace, green energy, and quantum technologies.
During the high-level meeting, Mr. Ambule lauded the stature of the 'CBN Brand' in Singapore's diplomatic and industrial circles, underscoring the respect and recognition it commands. He noted the alignment between Andhra Pradesh's development goals and Singapore's strategic strengths, expressing optimism about the potential for robust bilateral cooperation.
Mr. Naidu emphasised that Andhra Pradesh is rapidly emerging as a premier investment destination, backed by forward-looking policies and sector-specific incentives. He highlighted that the State was implementing a range of investor-friendly reforms aimed at attracting companies from Singapore and beyond, particularly in the areas of ports, renewable energy, and industrial corridors.
Referring to past collaboration on the Amaravati capital city project, Mr. Naidu acknowledged the setback experienced during 2019–2024 but reiterated his commitment to reviving and strengthening ties. 'This visit is an opportunity to clear misunderstandings, reestablish trust, and forge a renewed vision for development,' he remarked.
The Chief Minister outlined Andhra Pradesh's ambitious goal to generate 160 gigawatts of green energy. He revealed that green hydrogen projects have already commenced in Visakhapatnam in collaboration with NTPC, and another is underway in Kakinada. Additionally, he shared plans for India's first Quantum Valley in Amaravati under the India Quantum Mission, reinforcing the State's commitment to futuristic innovation.
Mr. Naidu also announced that Google is establishing a state-of-the-art data center in Visakhapatnam, signaling growing confidence among global tech giants in the State's infrastructure and talent ecosystem.
Highlighting the strategic importance of regions like Rayalaseema, he invited Singaporean firms to invest in high-potential sectors such as defence manufacturing, aerospace, electronics, and automobiles. 'Andhra Pradesh can become the gateway for Singapore's investments into India,' Naidu asserted.
Mr. Ambule emphasized the demand for technology professionals from Andhra Pradesh in Singapore and across Southeast Asia. He noted that Singapore, like the U.S., is fast emerging as a key destination for Indian students and skilled workers. The High Commission, he added, is actively working to enhance mobility and collaboration in this area.
The meeting also explored joint opportunities in semiconductors, shipbuilding, pharmaceuticals, AI, startups, and academic partnerships between universities in AP and Singapore. Singaporean majors such as STT, Keppel, CapitaLand, Equinix, and PSA are reportedly exploring investment avenues in the State.
Urban Development Minister P. Narayana briefed the delegation on housing initiatives in Andhra Pradesh, responding to Mr. Ambule's observation that 83% of Singaporeans benefit from public housing schemes.
Minister for IT and Education Nara Lokesh outlined reforms in the education sector and the State's readiness to host world-class academic institutions.
Ministers Mr. Lokesh, Mr. Narayana, and T.G. Bharat, along with senior officials from the Andhra Pradesh government, participated in the discussions.
With Day 1 of the visit focused on rebuilding strategic trust and showcasing AP's economic potential, CM Naidu's outreach in Singapore sets a confident tone for the days ahead.