In a world undergoing rapid shifts due to geopolitical tensions, economic fragmentation, and the weaponisation of trade, trust has re-emerged as the bedrock of economic relationships. It is shaping trade and investment flows, guiding policy choices, and providing the confidence needed for long-term growth. At the same time, competitiveness, anchored in productivity, innovation, and operational efficiency, has become a defining factor for economies seeking to lead in this uncertain landscape. As global priorities shift and trade strategies evolve, resilience, adaptability, and credibility are critical to maintaining economic momentum.

India stands out as a beacon of stability and growth in this dynamic context. With its robust macroeconomic fundamentals, reform-oriented governance, and diverse industrial capabilities, India is well-positioned to accelerate its economic rise. The country’s future, however, will be defined not just by the pace of its growth, but by the quality, how competitive, inclusive, sustainable, and trusted its economic model becomes.

With this backdrop, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) would further accelerate its focus on building competitiveness. It would work to accelerate the capability to compete better, not just in traditional sectors but in emerging high-tech, green, and digitised industries. CII this year will set in place actions for the immediate term, medium term and horizon strategies across the areas of competitiveness, globalisation, inclusivity, sustainability and building trust.

The CII Theme for 2025-26 has been conceptualised as Accelerating Competitiveness: Globalisation, Inclusivity, Sustainability, Trust.

Download CII Theme for 2025-26