West Bengal Chief Minister Ms. Mamata Banerjee is set to address over 12,000 traders at the Byabasayi Sammelan 2025 on December 17, in a major outreach to the state’s MSME-driven trading community ahead of the 2026 assembly elections. This year, the usual two-day international business summit will not be held, making the Sammelan a crucial forum for government-industry interaction.
Business Meet Scheduled to Facilitate Industry Interactions
A dedicated business meet on December 18 will provide industry representatives and small traders an opportunity to engage directly with state leadership. The initiative is part of the government’s broader plan to strengthen trade infrastructure, streamline operations, and address challenges faced by Bengal’s trading community.
Traders: The Backbone of West Bengal’s Economy
According to Mr. Sushil Poddar, president of the Confederation of West Bengal Trade Associations (CWBTA), traders support livelihoods for more than one crore people in the state. Bengal is home to 60-65 lakh traders, including those in the unorganised sector, who facilitate supply chains, support MSMEs, and link the state to neighbouring markets, including Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan.
Focus on Trade Infrastructure and Government-Industry Coordination
The Sammelan will deliberate on modernising trade infrastructure, removing operational bottlenecks, and enhancing government-industry coordination. Delegations from all 23 districts, including key commercial hubs and border trade points, are expected to participate.
CWBTA Vision for Trade-Led Growth
The CWBTA, representing over 10 lakh traders through more than 100 associations, will present its strategic vision for boosting trade-led economic growth in West Bengal. The platform aims to strengthen MSMEs and improve the ease of doing business across the state.
