Investment Attraction

The introduction of a direct air route between Manchester and Mumbai, announced by Manchester Airport and IndiGo, addresses a significant challenge faced by the North West of England: the low percentage of Indian visitors, particularly for business purposes. While 19% of Indian visitors to the UK travel for business, only 8% of these visitors come to the North West, compared to 43% who visit London. This new service, launching on July 1, is expected to enhance the region's appeal to Indian businesses and tourists, thereby increasing economic activity and cultural exchange.

The tailored solution provided by the new route aims to remove barriers for Indian companies considering Greater Manchester for their European operations. Joe Manning, Managing Director at MIDAS, emphasized that the direct connectivity would facilitate business deals and partnerships, particularly in sectors like fintech, advanced manufacturing, and technology. This initiative is expected to drive job creation and attract high-level investments, significantly benefiting the local economy.

Quantifiable results anticipated from this development include a boost in the region's share of Indian visitors and an increase in spending, as business travelers from India typically spend an average of £2,273 per visit. The new route is projected to enhance trade relations, with the UK and India’s recent trade agreement expected to increase bilateral trade by up to £25.5 billion annually by 2040. Additionally, the establishment of a new Indian consulate in Manchester will streamline access to consular services, further encouraging travel and investment.

Overall, the direct air link to Mumbai is seen as a pivotal step in strengthening economic, educational, and cultural ties between Greater Manchester and India, unlocking new opportunities for collaboration across various sectors and enhancing the region's global connectivity.