Industry forums have largely welcomed the revised State Budget, presented by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, describing it as investment-driven and focused on infrastructure and industrial growth, while a real estate association criticised it for ignoring sectoral demands.

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) termed the Budget growth-oriented, saying it would accelerate investment and economic development.

“The flagship initiatives, such as Mission Samudra for transforming Kerala as a cohesive port city is the key highlights of the Budget. The proposal to set up Rare Earth and Critical Mineral Corridor, Aviation Hub, Kerala MSME Growth Scheme, Kerala Knowledge Valley, Kerala Life and Life Science City, and Global Furniture Hub are noteworthy proposals,” said V.P. Nandakumar, chairman, FICCI Kerala State Council. FICCI also welcomed the proposed Invest Kerala data-driven cell, Investment Advisory Cell and reconstitution of the Planning Board.

The Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) called it a forward-looking roadmap balancing fiscal consolidation with investment-led growth. ICCI president Rajkumar Gupta praised the emphasis on maritime, MSMEs and logistics, while urging stronger execution for Kerala’s spice and seafood sectors and better integration of Kochi’s port ecosystem.

The Luxury Bus Owners Association welcomed the 50% reduction in tax for All India Permit vehicles, saying it would boost tourism and public transport while discouraging vehicle registrations in other States.

The All Kerala Gold and Silver Merchants Association hailed the proposal for a Global Gold Hub with private participation, saying it was willing to invest in the project.

The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) described the Budget as a far-sighted development document that could help Kerala become a globally competitive economy, highlighting its focus on infrastructure, logistics, maritime economy, skill development and startups. The Southern India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI)-Kerala also backed the Budget.

“Flagship initiatives such as Mission Samudra, Invest Keralam, the Southern Kerala Economic Corridor, the Aviation Hub, the Kerala MSME Growth Scheme, and the focus on renewable energy, logistics and healthcare have the potential to transform Kerala into a globally competitive investment and business destination,” said Thomas Nechupadam, chairman, SICCI-Kerala.

However, the Real Estate Consultants Association criticised the Budget, saying it ignored workers in the sector. Ernakulam district president Mithunlal Mitra said long-pending demands for a welfare fund and standardised commission were overlooked.