THE POWER OF THE WTC BRAND: SPOTLIGHTS ON WTC BOSTON AND WTC MUMBAI

In honor of WTCA Day (June 12), the June issue of WTCA Meridian focuses on the impact of the WTC brand, and includes Q&As with two WTCA Board Directors whose WTC businesses (WTC Boston and WTC Mumbai) are celebrating milestone anniversaries this year as part of the global WTCA network (40 and 55 years, respectively).

In the May 13, 2025 episode of The Matthews Podcast "Building Cities, Bridging Borders: John E. Drew on Where Real Estate Meets Global Trade," host Matthew Wallace sat down with a true pioneer of public-private urban development — John E. Drew, Founder and Chairman of The Drew Company. From shaping Boston’s iconic Seaport District (where WTC Boston is located) to advising U.S. trade policy and guiding the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA), his multidimensional career has made an indelible impact on real estate, infrastructure, and international commerce. 

Similarly, the WTCA Editorial Team sat down with Dr. Vijay Kalantri, Chairman of WTC Mumbai, to discuss the power of the WTC brand and WTC Mumbai's experience with the Association as one of its earliest members.

WTC Mumbai has been a WTCA Member since 1970. How did the decision to purchase the WTC license come about and what role did you play?

Under the pioneering leadership of Mr. Guy F. Tozzoli, the founder and first Chairman of the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA), WTCA was born to create facilities that would serve as focal points for the promotion of international commerce and establish a network to deliver services that would be a catalyst for business growth. Over the span of 50+ years, the vision has not changed, and WTCA continues to be the definitive organization for international trade. From 15 original members, it has grown to over 300 WTC businesses in nearly 100 countries and territories. Prosperity through trade continues to be the mission of WTCA.

WTC Mumbai was established in 1970, inspired by the vision of Bharat Ratna Sir M. Visvesvaraya, one of India’s foremost nation-builders. It became the first in India to receive a license from WTCA. The idea was to integrate India into a global platform for trade, investment and industrial development.

As WTC Mumbai's present Chairman, I have played a defining role in expanding WTC Mumbai’s stature within the WTCA network. Under my leadership, WTC Mumbai evolved from a trade promotion center to a globally reputed institution that promotes MSMEs, innovation, sustainability and business as trade. I also serves on the WTCA Board of Directors and continue to strengthen India’s voice in global trade forums.

What does holding a WTC license mean for MVIRDC and how has it enhanced your international business reach in Mumbai?

Holding a WTC license signifies more than a name — it represents trust, global connectivity and commitment to peace through trade. For MVIRDC (WTC Mumbai license holder), the WTC license has positioned us as a premier foreign trade promotion institution in India. It enables us to host high-level delegations, foster bilateral and multilateral partnerships and promote Indian enterprises on the world stage. Our association with WTCA has opened doors to nearly 100 countries/territories and more than one million member businesses, enhancing Mumbai’s role as an international business hub.

With the recent addition of WTC licenses throughout India, how do you foresee the development of the regional network and the opportunities it would provide?

The growing network of WTC businesses across India offers immense potential to catalyze regional economic development. A stronger WTC network within India can enhance national competitiveness by supporting industry clusters, creating shared trade intelligence, and facilitating inter-WTC collaboration. This expansion aligns with India’s vision of becoming a global manufacturing and innovation hub.

At WTC Mumbai, we are proud to have extended our footprint through our subsidiaries in Goa, Jaipur, and Bhubaneswar, enabling us to nurture regional industries, empower MSMEs, and bring global opportunities closer to tier-2 and tier-3 cities. With our decades of experience, we remain committed to mentoring and supporting the new WTC businesses in building robust international linkages and a truly connected India.

Over the past 50+ years, what impact has the WTCA network had on WTC Mumbai and India's economic development and international trade relations?

WTCA has been a powerful enabler for WTC Mumbai in its mission to promote international trade and investment. For over five decades, we have conducted thousands of seminars, exhibitions, B2B meetings, and trade missions involving countries across all continents. These engagements have supported India's economic diplomacy, built investor confidence, and deepened bilateral ties. The WTC brand has lent us both credibility and capacity in driving inclusive and sustainable trade.

How do you think WTCA has fulfilled its mission of "Connecting Businesses, Globally."?

WTCA has consistently delivered on its mission by creating a global infrastructure for business connectivity. It has empowered trade organizations worldwide to act as bridges between their local economies and the international market. Whether through WTCA Day, its signature events, or capacity-building programs, WTCA facilitates impactful collaborations that transcend borders. Especially during times of global uncertainty, this mission becomes even more critical.

What advice would you offer to newly established WTC businesses in the region to maximize the benefits of their WTCA membership?

New WTC businesses should leverage three key assets: the WTC brand, the WTCA network and the overall mission. Engage actively with fellow WTC businesses, build programs relevant to your region, and align your initiatives with global best practices. Use the WTCA ecosystem to bring global visibility to your local industries. Consistency, innovation, and collaboration are essential to unlocking the full value of membership.

What would you say to prospective WTC businesses about why they should join the WTCA network?

Joining WTCA connects you to a powerful community committed to economic growth through international cooperation. It opens doors to trade delegations, knowledge sharing, investment promotion and access to global markets. At a time when businesses are looking for trust-based platforms to expand globally, WTCA stands out as a beacon of credibility and peace-driven prosperity. For any city or region aiming for global relevance, being part of this network is both strategic and transformative.