Recession-hit US architecture firms eye India

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Kolkata, Oct 17: Hit by the meltdown, American architecture companies are seeking greener pastures and are keen to explore business avenues in India’s expanding infrastructure sector.

An American trade mission comprising 20 architectural firms Wednesday began its India visit starting with Kolkata. The delegation is slated to go to Bangalore and Chennai also.

“Like other countries, the US too has been hit by recession and, like most other services, architecture too has been adversely affected. With a view to exploring new avenues and to tap the rapidly expanding Indian market, the mission is here,” said US Consul General Dean Thompson.

The trade mission was organised by the International Trade Administration and the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in association with the Bharat Chamber of Commerce.

“In cities like Kolkata and Bangalore there is still a lot of scope for infrastructural development. That is why the mission has chosen these cities. We are hopeful of forging long-term partnerships with our Indian counterparts,” said AIA first vice president Mickey Jacob.

“India seeks to invest one trillion dollars in its infrastructure in the next five years and the country requires significant outside expertise to meet its goals. We hope through collaborations we can provide the required expertise,” added Jacob.

IANS