Sanjay Amonkar, Director General of Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI); elaborates on the role of the Chamber to engage with the government and various business sectors in the state
Tell us something about Yourself
I was born in Panaji, Goa and completed my schooling from Don Bosco High School, Panaji. Later I attended Dhempe College of Arts and Science and acquired a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering (Honours), from the University of Mumbai. Following this, I earned a Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Bangalore. Additionally, I hold a SAP (Systems, Applications, and Products) in Data Processing Certification from SAP, Germany.
Elaborate on your experience in the industry over the years
I joined Zuari Agro Chemicals Ltd as a Management Trainee and was General Manager (Commercial and Logistics) at the time of separation. With experience in maintenance, production, commercial, and logistics in senior positions, I have worked in 11 major ports in India with expertise in railway logistics. I was heading the Phosphatic Production of ZACL for five years during which the company was awarded the National Award for Best Phosphatic Plant in India. I was the lead for implementation of SAP in all companies of ZACL and have handled procurement of imported goods worth `8000 Cr per annum. I am a highly accomplished Senior Technical and Commercial Lead with 32+ years of experience driving excellence in the fertilizer/chemical production, logistics, maintenance, strategy, policy development, planning, SAP, and engineering sectors. My key strengths are transformational leadership with superior results; cost optimisation and value enhancement; strategic planning and policy formulation; commercial and logistics expertise; and environmental stewardship.
Currently I serve as the Director General, Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI); a member of the State Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) for Environmental Impact Assessment (MOEF), an Environmental Auditor, Goa Pollution Control Board; the Vice President of the Federation of Don Bosco Past Pupils, Konkan and Goa. I am part of various industry academia associations. I believe in delivering exceptional results through collaborative leadership, innovative solutions, and sustainable practices.
What inspired you to take up the role of director general at GCCI? What are the rewarding experiences that you have come across?
I had taken a sabbatical after separating from ZACL during the covid period. I was contacted by my predecessor R S Kamat and met three gentlemen who convinced me that I will be able to do justice to the post of the Director General of GCCI. I must say that the then President Manoj Caculo, Ralph de Sousa and Sandeep Bhandare have mentored me and still give valuable support. GCCI is a bridge between industry, trade, commerce and the government. It was great to learn about sectors like mining, infrastructure, tourism etc. My passion is to make friends and this position has helped me garner many connects while learning about various aspects of trade and industry. Liasoning has been a major gain apart from organising major events like Invest Goa, and I was able to meet personalities which I would never have dreamt of meeting. The best part about all of this was the opportunity to help our members and community to address generic issues. I was inspired to take on this role by the Chamber’s commitment to promote sustainable economic growth in Goa.
The most rewarding experiences have been facilitating policy changes that benefit local businesses; supporting entrepreneurs in accessing funding and resources; and witnessing members’ success stories and growth.
What is the mission and vision of the GCCI?
The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s mission is to promote and protect the interests of its members, while fostering economic growth and development in Goa.
Our vision is to make Goa a preferred destination for business and investment, ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity for all stakeholders.
Could you elaborate on the role of the GCCI Secretariat and how it supports the activities of the Chamber?
The GCCI Secretariat provides administrative support to the Chamber’s leadership; coordination of events, conferences, and seminars; research and policy advocacy services; communication facilitation between members, stakeholders, and government agencies; and support for business development and trade facilitation initiatives.
What initiatives does the Chamber have in place to engage its members and ensure that their voices are heard?
We engage members through: regular meetings and updates on industry trends; workshops and seminars on relevant topics; surveys and feedback mechanisms; sector-specific committees for targeted support and networking opportunities and business matchmaking.
Please share details of some recent workshops or seminars that have been hosted by GCCI recently…
Recent events include: GST and Tax Compliance: Implications for Goan Businesses; Export Promotion Strategies for MSMEs; Skill Development and Training Programs for the Workforce; and Women Entrepreneurship: Challenges and Opportunities.
In what ways does GCCI collaborate with the government to support local industry?
We work closely with the state government on policy initiatives and advocacy; project implementation and monitoring; trade facilitation and infrastructure development; business-friendly regulatory frameworks; budgetary suggestions; and representation on government bodies.
What are the Chamber’s key priorities for the upcoming year?
Our priorities for the upcoming year include enhancing infrastructure development (transportation, logistics, etc.); promoting entrepreneurship and startups (incubation, etc.); fostering industry-government partnerships; skill development and workforce training; and inclusive and sustainable growth.
What advice would you give to new entrepreneurs looking to establish their businesses in Goa?
To new entrepreneurs, I’d advise conduct thorough market research and analysis; leverage local resources and networks (Goa Chamber, industry associations, etc.); focus on innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility; and lastly engage with the Chamber for support, guidance, and advocacy
