Guwahati, Feb 28 (KNN) Assam Industries and Commerce Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary has invited investors to take advantage of Assam’s strategic location and rich resources in the state and said the government is aiming to turn Assam as the next investment destination.

He participated in a roundtable business meet with dignitaries at the backdrop of the 3rd edition of ‘Emerging Northeast 2020’ – organized by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) in Guwahati.

Speaking at the meet, the Minister said, "Whenever you come to Assam, come with a vision to invest in South East Asia. The state being the gateway to ASEAN region, has a good connectivity network through Mongla and Chittagong Ports, Bangladesh and the sea route for the investors to explore and expand their business deals. A day will come when our domestic market will be surplus, then the market of over 80 crore population will be limitless for the investors."

"Our interests are mutual, come forward and let us grow together,’ he added.

Patowary also requested the investors to submit proposals particularly for turning waste to wealth, food processing, cargo logistics etc.

''The proposals would be studied by the Investment Cell of Industries and Commerce Department and the officials concerned would extend all help and support for turning their proposals into projects" he avowed.

Meanwhile, Assam Chief Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal said there is 18 percent growth in the collection of State GST (SGST) in the state and refunds have been made on time.

Sonowal also urged the Union Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman to release the Central GST (CGST) and Integrated GST (IGST) refunds so that business community here gets encouragement to increase business activity.

The round table meet also witnessed discussions on government initiatives and schemes for development of North Eastern region; opportunities for investment in various sectors like energy, services and infrastructure, food processing based on locally available resources, etc.

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