Enhancing Competitiveness: Align domestic reforms with shifting global order, says CII
These measures, said CII, span macroeconomic stability, factor markets, energy, trade, and sustainability, and are designed to deliver inclusive growth and position India as a global leader.
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New Delhi
Rising geopolitical shifts along with the twin transitions of “green and digital” demand that India further deepen reforms to sustain high growth and global competitiveness, opined industry body Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
Accordingly, the industry body, in its flagship policy blueprint “Policies for a Competitive India”, suggested over 250 actionable reforms to raise India’s competitiveness.
These measures, said CII, span macroeconomic stability, factor markets, energy, trade, and sustainability, and are designed to deliver inclusive growth and position India as a global leader.
Notably, these recommended reforms come at a time when the Prime Minister has called for bold, second-generation reforms to unlock India’s full potential.
The confederation said that competitiveness is the “single most important national priority.”
In the reform roadmap, CII suggested several measures to accelerate sustainable growth, such as the creation of a Sovereign Wealth Fund, as well as decriminalisation of minor violations, time-bound approvals, single-window clearances, and second-generation IBC reforms.
Besides, the industry body called for privatisation of non-strategic public sector enterprises and stronger governance frameworks.
It also proposed market reforms, including digitised land titling, streamlined labour codes, a predictable minimum wage framework, and faster dispute resolution mechanisms.
On the policy front, CII recommended a forward-looking energy strategy with competitive tariffs, removal of cross-subsidies, robust transmission networks, private sector participation in nuclear energy, and a green hydrogen roadmap.
It highlighted the importance of judicial efficiency through faster dispute settlement, expanded commercial courts, and stronger tribunal oversight, along with tax reforms such as a simplified GST structure, its extension to petroleum and real estate, predictable personal taxation, and modernised customs processes.
Furthermore, the industry body suggested a progressive trade policy with rationalised tariffs, greater utilisation of FTAs, stronger investment provisions, and a dedicated e-commerce export strategy.
In manufacturing, CII asked the Centre to address the ‘missing middle’ through capital support, development of industrial corridors, and improved freight connectivity, while for MSMEs, it called for phased compliance, enhanced technology collaboration, and a second-tier patent system.
On broader priorities, the roadmap called for sustainability measures, including integration of industry into climate adaptation, digitised climate data, and sustainability-linked procurement.
The industry body pointed out the need for a comprehensive employment framework through national policies for jobs and the gig economy, along with targeted job creation in lagging districts.
In terms of urban transformation, CII proposed strengthening planning institutions, bolstering municipal finances, ensuring affordable housing, and promoting sustainable city systems.
According to the industry body, these reforms will drive growth, job creation, resilience, and sustainability, thereby positioning India to achieve its goal of “Viksit Bharat and global leadership.”
“CII remains fully committed to partnering with the government in this shared endeavour of building a globally competitive, inclusive, and innovation-driven India,” said CII President Rajiv Memani.
According to Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, CII, with global trade fragmenting and new sustainability standards emerging, competitiveness is “the single most important national priority.”
“If India aligns its domestic reforms with this shifting global order, it will not only integrate into value chains but also shape them,” Banerjee said.
“CII believes that competitiveness is a shared national project. The Government provides the enabling framework, while industry must respond with investment, innovation, and job creation. This report offers a roadmap for this partnership to flourish in the Amrit Kaal.”
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Published on August 24, 2025
