Industry chamber Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham) has constituted its National Council on SEZs & Industrial Zones for 2026–27, bringing together eminent industry leaders and policy experts to guide dialogue and strengthen India’s special economic zone ecosystem.
The council aims to serve as a collaborative platform for industry stakeholders and policymakers to promote reforms, encourage investments and enhance India’s competitiveness in global manufacturing and exports.
Ravindra Sannareddy Appointed Chairman
Sri City MD Ravindra Sannareddy has been appointed chairman of the Council. The leadership team includes co-chairmen L. B. Singhal, former zonal development commissioner of Noida Special Economic Zone and former director general of the Export Promotion Council for EOUs and SEZs and Hitender Mehta, managing partner of Centrum Legal and author of the book Law & Practice relating to Special Economic Zones The formation of the council was announced by Nirmal K. Minda, President of Assocham.
Focus On SEZ Reforms And Investment
Commenting on his appointment, Sannareddy said he was pleased to take on the responsibility at a time when India is reimagining its SEZ ecosystem. He noted that the council would work closely with government and industry stakeholders to strengthen SEZs and position them as engines of investment, exports and industrial growth, in line with the vision of a developed India.
Need To Align SEZ Policy With Industrial Initiatives
Singhal said the SEZ scheme has completed two decades since the enactment of the Special Economic Zones Act, 2005, making it an appropriate time to review the framework and ensure stronger integration with the domestic economy.
He added that the SEZ scheme, industrial corridor initiatives and the government’s Production Linked Incentive scheme should work in tandem to strengthen the Make in India initiative.
Council Significant Amid SEZ 2.0 Policy Push
Mehta said the council’s formation comes at a crucial time when India is shaping the SEZ 2.0 policy framework and considering broader reforms in the SEZ policy ecosystem.
He added that bringing together accomplished industry leaders and domain experts reflects strong institutional leadership and foresight.