<p>At the start of the World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos, China warned the international community against return to the 'law of the jungle'. Donald Trump might want to make WEF all about himself and America, but the US president might take note of the quiet progress made by China in all areas of competition: trade, technology, warfare and climate. One recurring story in the current world order is the increasing territorial ambitions of both nations, one which assumes American supremacy and exceptionalism, and the other stressing a multipolar world. China’s slowly warming relations with European nations, Canada, India and the Arab world sharply contrast with the renewed conflict-mongering of Trump, from Greenland to Iran and further afield. Trump wants to thrust America into the centre of everything, be it the pursuit of peace in Gaza or the technology-trade rivalries involving semiconductors. But it appears China is smiling as Trump destroys alliances and friendships that took American leaders decades to build. Here is how the rivalry is shaping up.</p><h2>World Economic Forum: An annual 'do' turns into a crisis meeting</h2><p>Geopolitical tensions and trade and tariff wars form the backdrop for this year’s WEF, taking place on January 19–23, under the theme "A Spirit of Dialogue" with the aim of fostering cooperation amid global fractures. &nbsp;The WEF’s Global Risks Report 2026 identified geoeconomic - not geopolitical- confrontation as the most significant short-term threat to global stability. This includes the use of sanctions, tariffs, export controls and trade restrictions as instruments of state power. Most of it actually applies to the Trump administration.<br>Cooperative mechanisms are crumbling, and multilateralism is in retreat. China–US rivalries are at the core of this global uncertainty.</p><p>The WEF's session names are also ominous. One is titled "Is the World at a Breaking Point?", an example of the forum's shift from optimism to panic-mode realism. That's because trade, technology and finance are increasingly being weaponised in a global order where economic tools are central to strategic influence.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/davos-2026-economic-development-trade-minister-of-maldives-mohamed-saeed-speaks-to-wion-1768971956455/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/davos-2026-economic-development-trade-minister-of-maldives-mohamed-saeed-speaks-to-wion-1768971956455/embed</a></p><h2>Trade, a new frontline pitting America against China</h2><p>China is working hard to appear as a stable and predictable trade partner, and has had a record $1.2 trillion trade surplus in 2025 as evidence. Vice-Premier He Lifeng highlighted China’s role in defending globalisation, touting the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as a tool for global stability and investment. Remember, only a few years ago, there was a lot of pessimism about BRI.<br>US actions, on the other hand, prioritised protectionism and unilateral action under Trump’s so-called "Donroe doctrine".</p><p>Tariffs, export controls on high-tech items like chips, and trade restrictions are framed as necessary to counter China’s industrial dominance. This approach risks the US being seen as a "bully".</p><p>Both US allies and emerging powers are now exploring independent or China-aligned strategies.<br>Global trade, which used to be largely immune to geopolitical tensions, is now fragmenting into geopolitical zones. This is leading several companies to adopt the "China +1" supply-chain strategy, hedging by diversifying production to India, South-East Asia, Mexico and Europe. India, Brazil and Gulf states are seeking more autonomy in global relations, but still face pressure from the US in the form of tariffs, sanctions or disincentives, making some of them tilt more towards China.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wef-davos-2026-opens-without-founder-after-whistleblower-flags-financial-and-ethical-misconduct-1768897765147">WEF Davos 2026 opens without founder after whistleblower flags 'financial and ethical misconduct'</a></p><h2>Technology rivalry to the forefront: AI race, semiconductors</h2><p>Perhaps the fiercest arena of US–China competition is technology. AI acceleration and industrial innovation are dominating the Davos discussions. While the US has leadership in frontier AI research, proprietary ecosystems and advanced semiconductors, it is also employing export controls on critical chips to stay at the top of the race. But China enjoys advantages in scaling, deployment and industrial ecosystems. It is already leading the world in electric vehicles, &nbsp;renewable energy, robotics, 5G infrastructure and batteries. China has perfected this through decades of state-backed strategic investment, process knowledge and ferocious market competition.</p><p>Low electricity costs in China, at $0.04–0.08/kWh, enable massive AI computing deployment compared to $0.15/kWh in the US. State-backed industrial policy and alternative chip quests position China to compete effectively despite US export restrictions.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/davos-2026-kerala-pavilion-inaugurated-at-wef-davos-as-global-investors-line-up-1768970543478">Davos 2026: Kerala Pavilion inaugurated at WEF Davos as global investors line up</a></p><h2>China vs US: A tussle between hegemony and multipolarity</h2><p>Davos 2026 reflects a broader power struggle over global governance, with China and the US at the two ends of the spectrum. China challenges US dominance in covert, overt or subtle manners, advocating a multipolar world through the Global Development Initiative and leadership in AI and clean energy standards. This is an approach that developing nations, particularly in regions like Africa, appear to embrace. China continues to be one of the key contributors to global GDP growth, more than 22 per cent of the total as per some estimates for 2026.</p><p>The US, on the other hand, appears to be operating in chaos, controlled or otherwise. Under Trump, it is showing inconsistent diplomacy, reliance on sanctions, and choreographed rhetoric regarding actual conflicts and wars.<br>Under such leadership, globalisation is fragmenting, and companies and nations are navigating these dual blocs or adopting hedging strategies.</p><p><i><strong>Disclaimer: The writer's views do not represent those of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</strong></i><br>&nbsp;</p>

Davos 2026 is taking place amid intensifying US–China rivalry across geopolitics, trade and technology. China projects stability and multipolarity in spite of its domestic issues, while Trump’s America disrupts alliances and global cooperation.

At the start of the World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos, China warned the international community against return to the 'law of the jungle'. Donald Trump might want to make WEF all about himself and America, but the US president might take note of the quiet progress made by China in all areas of competition: trade, technology, warfare and climate. One recurring story in the current world order is the increasing territorial ambitions of both nations, one which assumes American supremacy and exceptionalism, and the other stressing a multipolar world. China’s slowly warming relations with European nations, Canada, India and the Arab world sharply contrast with the renewed conflict-mongering of Trump, from Greenland to Iran and further afield. Trump wants to thrust America into the centre of everything, be it the pursuit of peace in Gaza or the technology-trade rivalries involving semiconductors. But it appears China is smiling as Trump destroys alliances and friendships that took American leaders decades to build. Here is how the rivalry is shaping up. World Economic Forum: An annual 'do' turns into a crisis meeting Geopolitical tensions and trade and tariff wars form the backdrop for this year’s WEF, taking place on January 19–23, under the theme "A Spirit of Dialogue" with the aim of fostering cooperation amid global fractures. The WEF’s Global Risks Report 2026 identified geoeconomic - not geopolitical- confrontation as the most significant short-term threat to global stability. This includes the use of sanctions, tariffs, export controls and trade restrictions as instruments of state power. Most of it actually applies to the Trump administration. Cooperative mechanisms are crumbling, and multilateralism is in retreat. China–US rivalries are at the core of this global uncertainty. The WEF's session names are also ominous. One is titled "Is the World at a Breaking Point?", an example of the forum's shift from optimism to panic-mode realism. That's because trade, technology and finance are increasingly being weaponised in a global order where economic tools are central to strategic influence. https://www.wionews.com/videos/davos-2026-economic-development-trade-minister-of-maldives-mohamed-saeed-speaks-to-wion-1768971956455/embed Trade, a new frontline pitting America against China China is working hard to appear as a stable and predictable trade partner, and has had a record $1.2 trillion trade surplus in 2025 as evidence. Vice-Premier He Lifeng highlighted China’s role in defending globalisation, touting the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as a tool for global stability and investment. Remember, only a few years ago, there was a lot of pessimism about BRI. US actions, on the other hand, prioritised protectionism and unilateral action under Trump’s so-called "Donroe doctrine". Tariffs, export controls on high-tech items like chips, and trade restrictions are framed as necessary to counter China’s industrial dominance. This approach risks the US being seen as a "bully". Both US allies and emerging powers are now exploring independent or China-aligned strategies. Global trade, which used to be largely immune to geopolitical tensions, is now fragmenting into geopolitical zones. This is leading several companies to adopt the "China +1" supply-chain strategy, hedging by diversifying production to India, South-East Asia, Mexico and Europe. India, Brazil and Gulf states are seeking more autonomy in global relations, but still face pressure from the US in the form of tariffs, sanctions or disincentives, making some of them tilt more towards China. Also read: WEF Davos 2026 opens without founder after whistleblower flags 'financial and ethical misconduct' Technology rivalry to the forefront: AI race, semiconductors Perhaps the fiercest arena of US–China competition is technology. AI acceleration and industrial innovation are dominating the Davos discussions. While the US has leadership in frontier AI research, proprietary ecosystems and advanced semiconductors, it is also employing export controls on critical chips to stay at the top of the race. But China enjoys advantages in scaling, deployment and industrial ecosystems. It is already leading the world in electric vehicles, renewable energy, robotics, 5G infrastructure and batteries. China has perfected this through decades of state-backed strategic investment, process knowledge and ferocious market competition. Low electricity costs in China, at $0.04–0.08/kWh, enable massive AI computing deployment compared to $0.15/kWh in the US. State-backed industrial policy and alternative chip quests position China to compete effectively despite US export restrictions. Also read: Davos 2026: Kerala Pavilion inaugurated at WEF Davos as global investors line up China vs US: A tussle between hegemony and multipolarity Davos 2026 reflects a broader power struggle over global governance, with China and the US at the two ends of the spectrum. China challenges US dominance in covert, overt or subtle manners, advocating a multipolar world through the Global Development Initiative and leadership in AI and clean energy standards. This is an approach that developing nations, particularly in regions like Africa, appear to embrace. China continues to be one of the key contributors to global GDP growth, more than 22 per cent of the total as per some estimates for 2026. The US, on the other hand, appears to be operating in chaos, controlled or otherwise. Under Trump, it is showing inconsistent diplomacy, reliance on sanctions, and choreographed rhetoric regarding actual conflicts and wars. Under such leadership, globalisation is fragmenting, and companies and nations are navigating these dual blocs or adopting hedging strategies. Disclaimer: The writer's views do not represent those of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

<p>Davos 2026 is taking place amid intensifying US–China rivalry across geopolitics, trade and technology. China projects stability and multipolarity in spite of its domestic issues, while Trump’s America disrupts alliances and global cooperation.</p>

Davos 2026 is also about US-China rivalry in geopolitics, trade and tech. And China is quietly winning

Swiss authorities have tightened security in Davos ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump’s address at the World Economic Forum 2026, as protesters display “No Kings” signs and stage demonstrations over his policies and global influence.


Davos 2026: Switzerland Heightens Security Ahead Of Trump's WEF Speech Amid Protests

U.S. President Donald Trump is set to make his first appearance at the World Economic Forum in six years, speaking at Davos 2026 amid tensions with NATO allies, where he is expected to highlight his administration’s achievements and hail the U.S. as the world’s most successful country.


Davos 2026: Trump's Appearance At The World Economic Forum In Six Years

India is making a strong business pitch at the World Economic Forum in Davos, sending its largest ever delegation with central leaders and representatives from ten Indian states wooing global investors amid a shifting global economic landscape.


Davos 2026: India Sends Largest-Ever Delegation Begins

As global leaders gather at Davos 2026, the World Economic Forum is set to play a key role in shaping India’s $5 trillion economy vision, with discussions on investment, trade, AI, MSMEs, climate finance and India’s growing influence in global decision-making.


Davos 2026: India has scope to lead the AI transition 

Day two of the World Economic Forum in Davos sees high-stakes diplomacy take center stage, with expected interactions between President Donald Trump and President Volodymyr Zelensky, intense talks with European leaders, and the Gaza Board of Peace initiative firmly in focus.


Davos 2026: Will Wars Overshadow Talks? WION Reports From World Economic Forum

Davos 2026: How the World Economic Forum Could Shape India’s $5 Trillion Economy Ambition

WION brings a ground report from World Economic Forum Davos 2026, as the India Pavilion showcases India’s growth story, global partnerships, and its bridge-building role in a changing world order.


Davos 2026: Business see gains, residents flag inconvenience

Davos 2026: High-Stakes Diplomacy as Trump, Zelensky and Global Leaders Converge 

South Africa's richest self-made woman, Magda Wierzycka, founder of Sygnity Group, spoke exclusively to WION.


Davos 2026: South Africa's Richest 'self-made' Woman Speaks to WION

India 5 trillion economy, India GDP growth, India fastest growing economy, India economy IMF data, India economic growth decade, India GDP doubled, Indian economy 2015 to 2025, Modi economic reforms, India growth story, emerging markets India, global economy India, IMF India outlook, India economic milestones, business news India, breaking economy news

Davos 2026: India's $5T Dream Accelerates: GDP Nearly Doubles 

South Africa's richest self-made woman, Magda Wierzycka, founder of Sygnity Group, spoke exclusively to WION 

 Davos 2026: South Africa's Richest 'self-made' Woman Speaks to WION 

Protesters outside Davos brandish "Stop Trump, No WEF" placards as President Donald Trump prepares to lead the largest-ever U.S. delegation to the World Economic Forum summit starting today.

Davos 2026: 'Stop Trump, No WEF!' Protests Rage as U.S. Delegation Swells

World leaders are converging on Davos for the World Economic Forum's 56th Annual Meeting, starting today under the theme "A Spirit of Dialogue," amid pressing global crises like trade tensions and geopolitical flashpoints. Nearly 3,000 participants, including 65 heads of state such as President Trump, Ukraine's Zelenskyy, and Syria's al-Sharaa, plus top CEOs from NVIDIA and Microsoft, gear up for high-stakes talks on rebuilding trust and innovation. 

Davos 2026: World Leaders Gear Up For Davos

As the World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting begins in Davos on 19 January 2026, a new report reveals a stark contradiction. Over 1,000 private jets are expected to land at nearby airports. Critics call it climate hypocrisy, as the emissions rival those of thousands of cars.

Davos 2026: World elites to arrive in around 1,000 private jets to discuss the climate crisis

Kerala invites global investors to explore opportunities at the World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos, Switzerland.

Kerala believes in balancing nature, people and industry, becoming India's first state with a formal ESG policy.

Invest in Kerala, invest in the future.

India at Davos 2026: Kerala Delegation Gains Momentum

<p>Kerala is showcasing its industrial development and investor confidence at the World Economic Forum in Davos, being held on January 19-23. The south Indian state continues to offer one of the best quality of life in the nation, and consistently tops human development index (HDI). The best living standards in India play a crucial role in attracting global talent and senior leadership to the state.</p><h2>Kerala ranks high on Human Developent Index , sustainable development goals</h2><p>Kerala retained its top position in the NITI Aayog Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) India Index of 2023-24, with a score of 79 out of 100. Kerala’s Human Development Index (HDI), at 0.758, is comparable to that of many developed nations. The state also maintains the highest Physical Quality of Life Index (PQLI) at 95.34.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/davos-2026-how-kerala-s-skilled-manpower-is-boosting-its-knowledge-economy-world-economic-forum-news-1768556796917">Davos 2026 | How Kerala’s skilled manpower is boosting its knowledge economy</a></p><h2>Environmental Excellence: Kerala offers good air quality crucial to today's businesses</h2><p>Kerala has an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 26, which is significantly cleaner than the national average. This ensures a healthy environment for the workforce, as "Quality of Life" is a major draw for global firms’ senior leadership and expats.&nbsp;<br>With a far superior AQI compared to other industrial hubs and excellent social infrastructure, Kerala makes it easy for companies to attract and maintain top-tier executive talent.<br>High social stability and low crime rates also enable a business-positive environment. Kerala has a healthy, educated, and satisfied population, which ensures social stability and low crime rates. These are key requirements for a stable business environment.</p><h2>Rural-urban continuum: Kerala’s unique "Continuous City" model</h2><p>Kerala has a unique geography that provides a strategic advantage for logistics and decentralised industrial growth. Unlike other states with a single primate city, Kerala operates as a polycentric network of towns, offering a "rural-urban continuum".</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/davos-2026-explore-kerala-as-india-s-next-deep-tech-hub-1768714533077/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/davos-2026-explore-kerala-as-india-s-next-deep-tech-hub-1768714533077/embed</a></p><h2>State-run high-speed internet and 100 per cent digital literacy: Key advantages of Kerala</h2><p>Kerala Fibre Optic Network or K-FON is the Kerala government's project to provide high-speed internet across the state at affordable rates. K-FON aims to bridge the digital divide by offering free connections to below poverty line (BPL) families and low-cost plans for others. This vast optical fibre network connects homes, businesses and government offices for enhanced e-governance, education, and digital access.</p><p>K-FON, made available in every corner of the state, combined with 100 per cent digital literacy, ensures that the state has world-class infrastructure crucial for global firms.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/davos-2026-how-kerala-is-strengthening-brand-image-with-the-motto-responsible-investment-responsible-industry-1768554714220">Davos 2026 | How Kerala is strengthening brand image with the motto ‘responsible Investment, responsible Industry’</a></p><h2>Kerala’s climate-smart zoning and local governance for sustainable urbanisation</h2><p>Kerala Urban Policy Commission (KUPC) recently submitted a report, paving the way for "City Cabinets" in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, and Kozhikode. This envisions climate-smart zoning and metropolitan-level governance, making the state a "lighthouse" for sustainable urbanisation in India.<br>By 2035, more than 90 per cent of Kerala’s population is projected to live in urbanised clusters, ensuring a uniform market and talent pool for investors across the state’s geography.<br>This prevents the "slumification" and congestion associated with rapid urbanisation. It allows for decentralised development, ensuring that the benefits of industrialisation reach every district.</p><h2>Advantage for investors: No need to pay "city-centre" premiums for land in Kerala</h2><p>Investors can set up manufacturing units in suburban or rural settings while still enjoying urban-grade connectivity, power, and high-speed internet. This "distributed supply chain" model reduces operational overheads and provides access to a stable and localised workforce.&nbsp;</p>

At World Economic Forum in Davos, India's Kerala is highlighting its investor-friendly ecosystem, driven by high HDI, top SDG rank, clean air, digital literacy, high-speed internet, strong infrastructure, and a unique decentralised urban-industrial model.



Kerala is showcasing its industrial development and investor confidence at the World Economic Forum in Davos, being held on January 19-23. The south Indian state continues to offer one of the best quality of life in the nation, and consistently tops human development index (HDI). The best living standards in India play a crucial role in attracting global talent and senior leadership to the state. Kerala ranks high on Human Developent Index , sustainable development goals Kerala retained its top position in the NITI Aayog Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) India Index of 2023-24, with a score of 79 out of 100. Kerala’s Human Development Index (HDI), at 0.758, is comparable to that of many developed nations. The state also maintains the highest Physical Quality of Life Index (PQLI) at 95.34. Also read: Davos 2026 | How Kerala’s skilled manpower is boosting its knowledge economy Environmental Excellence: Kerala offers good air quality crucial to today's businesses Kerala has an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 26, which is significantly cleaner than the national average. This ensures a healthy environment for the workforce, as "Quality of Life" is a major draw for global firms’ senior leadership and expats. With a far superior AQI compared to other industrial hubs and excellent social infrastructure, Kerala makes it easy for companies to attract and maintain top-tier executive talent. High social stability and low crime rates also enable a business-positive environment. Kerala has a healthy, educated, and satisfied population, which ensures social stability and low crime rates. These are key requirements for a stable business environment. Rural-urban continuum: Kerala’s unique "Continuous City" model Kerala has a unique geography that provides a strategic advantage for logistics and decentralised industrial growth. Unlike other states with a single primate city, Kerala operates as a polycentric network of towns, offering a "rural-urban continuum". https://www.wionews.com/videos/davos-2026-explore-kerala-as-india-s-next-deep-tech-hub-1768714533077/embed State-run high-speed internet and 100 per cent digital literacy: Key advantages of Kerala Kerala Fibre Optic Network or K-FON is the Kerala government's project to provide high-speed internet across the state at affordable rates. K-FON aims to bridge the digital divide by offering free connections to below poverty line (BPL) families and low-cost plans for others. This vast optical fibre network connects homes, businesses and government offices for enhanced e-governance, education, and digital access. K-FON, made available in every corner of the state, combined with 100 per cent digital literacy, ensures that the state has world-class infrastructure crucial for global firms. Also read: Davos 2026 | How Kerala is strengthening brand image with the motto ‘responsible Investment, responsible Industry’ Kerala’s climate-smart zoning and local governance for sustainable urbanisation Kerala Urban Policy Commission (KUPC) recently submitted a report, paving the way for "City Cabinets" in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, and Kozhikode. This envisions climate-smart zoning and metropolitan-level governance, making the state a "lighthouse" for sustainable urbanisation in India. By 2035, more than 90 per cent of Kerala’s population is projected to live in urbanised clusters, ensuring a uniform market and talent pool for investors across the state’s geography. This prevents the "slumification" and congestion associated with rapid urbanisation. It allows for decentralised development, ensuring that the benefits of industrialisation reach every district. Advantage for investors: No need to pay "city-centre" premiums for land in Kerala Investors can set up manufacturing units in suburban or rural settings while still enjoying urban-grade connectivity, power, and high-speed internet. This "distributed supply chain" model reduces operational overheads and provides access to a stable and localised workforce.

<p>At World Economic Forum in Davos, India's Kerala is highlighting its investor-friendly ecosystem, driven by high HDI, top SDG rank, clean air, digital literacy, high-speed internet, strong infrastructure, and a unique decentralised urban-industrial model.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Davos 2026 | The real Kerala story: How the south Indian state enjoys top quality of life, HDI ranking and internet for all

The World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos is often viewed as the ultimate symbol of out-of-touch elitism. While it claims to "improve the state of the world", critics argue it is merely a networking event for the ultra-wealthy, marred by accusations of climate hypocrisy and corporate lobbying.

Why Davos is considered one of the most controversial meetings of the global elite

As global elites gather for Davos 2026, the summit faces renewed scrutiny over its nightlife and workplace culture. Reports reveal a surge in high-end escorts charging premium rates. The WEF denies these claims, citing a zero-tolerance policy.

‘Prostitution and hush money’: What happens behind the closed doors of Davos World Economic Forum

As the World Economic Forum convenes in Davos from 19 to 23 January 2026, the summit faces a recurring controversy. Beyond the high-level debates, the Swiss resort town historically sees a surge in the sex trade.

‘Davos 2026’: How the biggest economic forum got plagued by prostitution rings

<p>Kerala is showcasing its industrial development and investor confidence at the World Economic Forum 2026 being held in Davos on January 19-23. The south Indian state’s greatest asset is its highly skilled, digitally literate workforce. This workforce is being further refined for the Industry 4.0 era, or the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which involves the digital transformation of manufacturing and industrial processes by integrating smart technologies like AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and Big Data.</p><h2>Kerala, a hub of global capacity centres</h2><p>Boosted by its skilled workforce and supportive government policies, Kerala is emerging as a significant hub for Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India. The state is leveraging its strong IT infrastructure: the Technopark in Thiruvananthapuram, Infopark in Kochi and Cyberpark in Kozhikode. &nbsp;Adding to this is India's first AI township at Infopark Phase 3. Kerala's upcoming dedicated GCC policy is set to attract global firms, positioning cities like Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram as key destinations for innovation and investment.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kerala-at-davos-2026-building-a-future-ready-tourism-economy-1768453566190/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/kerala-at-davos-2026-building-a-future-ready-tourism-economy-1768453566190/embed</a></p><h2>The Kerala Knowledge Economy Mission to give 2 million jobs as state focuses on niche skill development</h2><p>Kerala Knowledge Economy Mission (KKEM) is a flagship initiative that aims to provide 2 million jobs in the knowledge sector in the state that now has the highest density of tech-ready professionals in India.<br>Kerala has already established systems in place for niche skilled development. One of them is the Kerala Academy for Skills Excellence (KASE), a non‐profit company and nodal agency for facilitating and coordinating various skill development initiatives.&nbsp;</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/davos-2026-how-kerala-is-strengthening-brand-image-with-the-motto-responsible-investment-responsible-industry-1768554714220">Davos 2026 | How Kerala is strengthening brand image with the motto ‘responsible Investment, responsible Industry’</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The other is ASAP Kerala, the Additional Skill Acquisition Programmme, a public-private venture that includes training centres to boost employability by providing industry-relevant skill training. The government initiative bridges the gap between academia and industry through courses, skill parks, internships, and placements for students and youth. The focus is on job-ready skills and tech fields like AI and Machine Learning. &nbsp;<br>Through the KASE and ASAP Kerala, the state has empanelled international skilling partners for sunrise sectors like Graphene, Green Hydrogen, AI, Fintech, BioTech and renewable energy.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-economic-forum-2026-what-to-expect-who-s-coming-and-how-to-follow-the-summit-1768126584794">World Economic Forum 2026: What to expect, who’s coming and how to follow the summit</a></p><h2>Changing from migrating employees high-value employment, with a ‘plug and play’ talent pool&nbsp;</h2><p>These initiatives are shifting the state’s labour profile from "outward migration" to "local high-value employment." The idea is to retain talent and boost the State Domestic Product (GSDP) through the service and high-tech manufacturing sectors.</p><p>With the initiatives, investors in Kerala will gain access to a "plug-and-play" talent pool. Unlike saturated tech hubs in the rest of India, Kerala offers significantly higher retention rates and lower attrition, reducing the long-term costs of recruitment and retraining.<br>&nbsp;</p>

At Davos 2026, Kerala is highlighting its skilled, Industry 4.0-ready workforce. The south Indian state is emerging as a GCC hub with its IT parks, AI focus, skill missions, and a plug-and-play talent ecosystem.


Kerala is showcasing its industrial development and investor confidence at the World Economic Forum 2026 being held in Davos on January 19-23. The south Indian state’s greatest asset is its highly skilled, digitally literate workforce. This workforce is being further refined for the Industry 4.0 era, or the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which involves the digital transformation of manufacturing and industrial processes by integrating smart technologies like AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and Big Data. Kerala, a hub of global capacity centres Boosted by its skilled workforce and supportive government policies, Kerala is emerging as a significant hub for Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India. The state is leveraging its strong IT infrastructure: the Technopark in Thiruvananthapuram, Infopark in Kochi and Cyberpark in Kozhikode. Adding to this is India's first AI township at Infopark Phase 3. Kerala's upcoming dedicated GCC policy is set to attract global firms, positioning cities like Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram as key destinations for innovation and investment. https://www.wionews.com/videos/kerala-at-davos-2026-building-a-future-ready-tourism-economy-1768453566190/embed The Kerala Knowledge Economy Mission to give 2 million jobs as state focuses on niche skill development Kerala Knowledge Economy Mission (KKEM) is a flagship initiative that aims to provide 2 million jobs in the knowledge sector in the state that now has the highest density of tech-ready professionals in India. Kerala has already established systems in place for niche skilled development. One of them is the Kerala Academy for Skills Excellence (KASE), a non‐profit company and nodal agency for facilitating and coordinating various skill development initiatives. Also read: Davos 2026 | How Kerala is strengthening brand image with the motto ‘responsible Investment, responsible Industry’ The other is ASAP Kerala, the Additional Skill Acquisition Programmme, a public-private venture that includes training centres to boost employability by providing industry-relevant skill training. The government initiative bridges the gap between academia and industry through courses, skill parks, internships, and placements for students and youth. The focus is on job-ready skills and tech fields like AI and Machine Learning. Through the KASE and ASAP Kerala, the state has empanelled international skilling partners for sunrise sectors like Graphene, Green Hydrogen, AI, Fintech, BioTech and renewable energy. Also read: World Economic Forum 2026: What to expect, who’s coming and how to follow the summit Changing from migrating employees high-value employment, with a ‘plug and play’ talent pool These initiatives are shifting the state’s labour profile from "outward migration" to "local high-value employment." The idea is to retain talent and boost the State Domestic Product (GSDP) through the service and high-tech manufacturing sectors. With the initiatives, investors in Kerala will gain access to a "plug-and-play" talent pool. Unlike saturated tech hubs in the rest of India, Kerala offers significantly higher retention rates and lower attrition, reducing the long-term costs of recruitment and retraining.

<p>At Davos 2026, Kerala is highlighting its skilled, Industry 4.0-ready workforce. The south Indian state is emerging as a GCC hub with its IT parks, AI focus, skill missions, and a plug-and-play talent ecosystem.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Davos 2026 | How Kerala’s skilled manpower is boosting its knowledge economy

The World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2026, to be held in Davos from January 19 to 23, 2026, focuses on the "Intelligent Age" and its impact on the global workforce. Leaders are prioritising reskilling, "Agentic AI" adaptation, and the value of human-centric soft skills.

‘92 million jobs at risk’: How Davos 2026 plans to fix the global skills gap

<p>Kerala is showcasing its industrial sector at the World Economic Forum, being held in January 19-23 in Davos. The south Indian sate has&nbsp;rebranded its industrial landscape over the years, shifting the narrative from a traditional base to a hub for sustainable and ethical business.The state has been rebranding its industry as a sustainable sector, while taking an environmenal , &nbsp;social and governnance-driven approach. The state has been regularly topping Ease of Doing Business rankings, and attracting global investments.&nbsp;</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-economic-forum-2026-why-the-davos-theme-matters-amid-iran-us-tensions-1768124288406">World Economic Forum 2026: Why the Davos theme matters amid Iran-US tensions</a></p><h2>Kerala is leading in ease of doing business; global investment summits now a norm</h2><p>Kerala has achieved the top position in the National Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) Rankings in 2024, with a record 99.1 per cent reform implementation score.</p><p>Keala has been holding global investment summits for some years now. The Invest Kerala Global Summit 2025 was held in Kochi in February 2025, attracting expressions of Interest (EOIs) worth&nbsp;₹1.80 trillion from 449 companies. The construction has already begun for 100 of these projects, including by global giants like Dynimated and Adani Logistics.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/davos-2026-kerala-s-green-tech-and-climate-goals-wion-at-davos-1768540856656/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/davos-2026-kerala-s-green-tech-and-climate-goals-wion-at-davos-1768540856656/embed</a></p><h2>Developing without hurting ecology:&nbsp;Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) focus of Kerala</h2><p>Kerala has focused on environment-conscious development. The government has undertaken a comprehensive rebranding exercise for all State public sector units (PSUs) and District Industries Centres (DICs).&nbsp;</p><p>They have adopted a uniform ESG-focused identity, including the implementation of "Mission 1000," aimed at scaling 1,000 medium and small enterprises or MSMEs into&nbsp;₹100 crore turnover.&nbsp;</p><p>Kerala's rebranding attracts high-value, non-polluting industries like Artificial Intelligence, Space technology and life sciences.&nbsp;</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-economic-forum-2026-what-to-expect-who-s-coming-and-how-to-follow-the-summit-1768126584794">World Economic Forum 2026: What to expect, who’s coming and how to follow the summit</a></p><p>This ensures economic growth does not compromise Kerala's fragile and precious ecology.</p><p>Companies today face immense global pressure for ESG compliance. When operating in Kerala, investors automatically align with international sustainability standards. They benefit from a transparent, feedback-linked regulatory system under the Business Reforms Action Plan 2024 (BRAP 2024). Such industries can gain a "Green Premium" for their products.</p>

Kerala is rebranding its industry as a sustainable, ESG-driven hub. The state has been topping Ease of Doing Business rankings, attracting global investments, and promoting non-polluting sectors while protecting ecology


Kerala is showcasing its industrial sector at the World Economic Forum, being held in January 19-23 in Davos. The south Indian sate has rebranded its industrial landscape over the years, shifting the narrative from a traditional base to a hub for sustainable and ethical business.The state has been rebranding its industry as a sustainable sector, while taking an environmenal , social and governnance-driven approach. The state has been regularly topping Ease of Doing Business rankings, and attracting global investments. Also read: World Economic Forum 2026: Why the Davos theme matters amid Iran-US tensions Kerala is leading in ease of doing business; global investment summits now a norm Kerala has achieved the top position in the National Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) Rankings in 2024, with a record 99.1 per cent reform implementation score. Keala has been holding global investment summits for some years now. The Invest Kerala Global Summit 2025 was held in Kochi in February 2025, attracting expressions of Interest (EOIs) worth ₹1.80 trillion from 449 companies. The construction has already begun for 100 of these projects, including by global giants like Dynimated and Adani Logistics. https://www.wionews.com/videos/davos-2026-kerala-s-green-tech-and-climate-goals-wion-at-davos-1768540856656/embed Developing without hurting ecology: Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) focus of Kerala Kerala has focused on environment-conscious development. The government has undertaken a comprehensive rebranding exercise for all State public sector units (PSUs) and District Industries Centres (DICs). They have adopted a uniform ESG-focused identity, including the implementation of "Mission 1000," aimed at scaling 1,000 medium and small enterprises or MSMEs into ₹100 crore turnover. Kerala's rebranding attracts high-value, non-polluting industries like Artificial Intelligence, Space technology and life sciences. Also read: World Economic Forum 2026: What to expect, who’s coming and how to follow the summit This ensures economic growth does not compromise Kerala's fragile and precious ecology. Companies today face immense global pressure for ESG compliance. When operating in Kerala, investors automatically align with international sustainability standards. They benefit from a transparent, feedback-linked regulatory system under the Business Reforms Action Plan 2024 (BRAP 2024). Such industries can gain a "Green Premium" for their products.

<p>Kerala is rebranding its industry as a sustainable, ESG-driven hub. The state has been topping Ease of Doing Business rankings, attracting global investments, and promoting non-polluting sectors while protecting ecology<br>&nbsp;</p>

Davos 2026 | How Kerala is strengthening brand image with the motto ‘responsible Investment, responsible Industry’

The World Economic Forum 2026 meets in Davos under the theme 'A Spirit of Dialogue'. Facing US-Iran tensions and global fragmentation, the summit focuses on restoring cooperation. 

World Economic Forum 2026: Why the Davos theme matters amid Iran-US tensions

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Davos 2026 | How Kerala’s skilled manpower is boosting its knowledge economy

‘92 million jobs at risk’: How Davos 2026 plans to fix the global skills gap

Davos 2026 | Kerala's new brand: ‘Responsible Investment, responsible Industry’

World Economic Forum 2026: Why the Davos theme matters amid Iran-US tensions