On 12 November 2025, the Perth USAsia Centre was delighted to host a public event centred on First Nations business ties with India.  

This event followed the inaugural First Nations Business Mission to India (26 October-3 November) – a DFAT-funded initiative implemented by the Perth USAsia Centre and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of WA, with support from the Indigenous Emerging Business Forum.  

This historic mission brought eight WA First Nations businesses to Mumbai, New Delhi, and Kolkata to explore opportunities in India’s dynamic mining and renewable energy sectors. First Nations businesses are embedded in Australia’s Roadmap for economic engagement with India, and this mission played a critical part.  

As Australia’s first diplomats and traders, First Nations people have been forging global connections for thousands of years. Today, they play a vital role in furthering one of Australia’s most important relationships, especially as India rises to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030.  

Attendees heard first-hand insights from the delegation, including on business opportunities, partnerships already forged, and the deep cultural connections the group gained from their trip.