Davos, 21 Jan

Karnataka government officials held a series of investment-focused meetings with global companies and institutions at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, discussing opportunities across technology, energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, education and consumer sectors, while assuring policy stability and facilitation.

Bharti Enterprises, which has invested around Rs 13,000 crore in the State, discussed plans to set up a data centre, with talks covering land, water and infrastructure support. Bharat Forge explored manufacturing and precision engineering opportunities aligned with Karnataka’s industrial ecosystem.

Digital payments major PayPal highlighted its interest in AI-led innovation, talent development and startup funding, while Imperial College London discussed expanding its R&D and academic presence, including a possible footprint in KWIN City. Carlsberg Group reviewed progress on its Rs 350 crore bottling expansion and signalled interest in further capacity addition.

French AI firm Mistral AI discussed setting up a global capability or R&D centre in Bengaluru, citing Karnataka’s strong AI talent base. Renewable energy firm ReNew Power reviewed investments across solar, wind, storage and hybrid projects, while water technology company Xylem proposed studies for advanced wastewater treatment solutions.

Philip Morris International discussed future investments and regulatory engagement, while Belrise Industries reviewed progress on its upcoming project. Energy firm Octopus Energy presented proposals on vehicle-to-grid technology and net-zero housing models.

Separately, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar invited global investors to Bengaluru, highlighting infrastructure growth, talent availability and investor-friendly governance.