Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI)

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) is an association of business organizations in India, headquartered in the national capital New Delhi. FICCI is one of the main organizations to fund and support many governmental and non-governmental educational institutes. It was founded by GD Birla and Purushottam Takkur in 1927, on the advice of Mahatma Gandhi.

Established in 1927, FICCI is the largest and oldest apex business organisation in India. Its history is closely interwoven with India's struggle for independence and its subsequent emergence as one of the most rapidly growing economies globally. FICCI plays a leading role in policy debates that are at the forefront of social, economic and political change. Through its 400 professionals, FICCI is active in 39 sectors of the economy. FICCI's stand on policy issues is sought out by think tanks, governments and academia. Its publications are widely read for their in-depth research and policy prescriptions. FICCI has joint business councils with 79 countries around the world.

A non-government, not-for-profit organisation, FICCI is the voice of India's business and industry. FICCI has direct membership from the private as well as public sectors, including SMEs and MNCs, and an indirect membership of over 83,000 companies from regional chambers of commerce.

FICCI works closely with the government on policy issues, enhancing efficiency, competitiveness and expanding business opportunities for industry through a range of specialised services and global linkages. It also provides a platform for sector specific consensus building and networking.

Partnerships with countries across the world carry forward our initiatives in inclusive development, which encompass health, education, livelihood, governance, skill development, etc. FICCI serves as the first port of call for Indian industry and the international business community.

The current president of FICCI is Mr. Harsh Pati Singhania. Mr. Singhania, a fourth-generation industrialist belongs to a large industrial group - JK Organisation manufacturing Paper & Boards, Cement, Automobile Tyres & Tubes, Hybrid Seeds, Power transmission, Automotive and V-Belts, Sugar, Dairy products, Clinical Research, Hospital, Woollen and Jute Textiles, Engineering Tools, Oil Seals, etc with a turnover of over USD 2.2 billion and assets of over USD 2 billion. Mr Harsh Pati Singhania oversees the Group's Pulp & Paper and Milk Products businesses, besides other corporate activities.

FICCI Global

Joint Business Councils (JBCs) are institutional mechanisms between FICCI and counterpart apex Chambers in different countries that facilitate regular business to business interaction on a regular basis. JBC arrangements have been established by FICCI with 79 countries.

JBCs also provide a variety of business facilitation services by closely working with Government and business promotion organisations in India and the respective partner countries. JBCs also play host to the high-level Government dignitaries who visit India and help build close working relationships between Governments and business.

Major activities of the JBCs include exchange of business delegations and joint task forces that help identify the bilateral business co-operation potential and make suitable policy recommendations to Governments. Joint Business Councils are also often held along with the inter-governmental Joint Commission meetings to facilitate Government and business synergy in promoting business linkages.

Specific services rendered by JBCs include assistance for setting up Joint ventures, finding sources of investment and technology and providing a clearing house for business enquiries and information.