With support from the BMF, the Mumbai International Boat Show has been put in place and offers exciting opportunities for the UK leisure marine industry.

The industry now has an avenue to market, a way to find distributors/agents and to learn about the local market. India's economy is booming and economic commentators point to an era of unprecedented growth.

In a recent CapGemini - Merrill Lynch study India is the second fastest growing HNI (High Net Worth Individuals) market in the world. Consumer spending on lifestyle and luxury brands is at an all-time high and this appetite showing no signs of abating. There’s also a strong maritime history.

Do UK companies benefit?
So far, the BMF has introduced over 20 companies to this rapidly developing leisure marine market. Leading manufacturers and brokerage firms are at the 2008 show and two British companies featured in the UKTI sponsored conference on waterfront infrastructure development, keen to build much needed marina facilities.

What about India?
It’s early days in India for the marine industry but there IS a market here. Some question the existence of 'first mover' advantage but brands that are building a presence here now are laying good foundations for future growth.

We’ll be back in 2009 with showcase options for UK companies - come and explore the market with us.