Universities Australia joined industry leaders on a visit to India to strengthen and increase trade and investment links between the two countries.

More than 100 Australian companies met with Indian business and government stakeholders as part of the Australia India Business Exchange delegation. The trip was designed to explore commercial opportunities across education, health, food and agriculture, critical minerals, and sustainable infrastructure. 

Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said the visit provided an opportunity to cement higher education at the centre of Australia's trade agenda with India.

“Australia is a major exporting nation and international education is one of our biggest export earners, contributing significantly to our bottom line. Education is the biggest export we don’t source from the ground," Ms Jackson said.

“We must also look at ways to grow our research links. Our universities are already connected by more than 450 partnerships, through which researchers are working together to solve complex challenges, embrace new opportunities and prepare us for the future.

“Deepening our ties is vital as our nations drive ahead in a changing global environment.”

Image: Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson meeting with Association of Indian Universities representatives. Source: Twitter