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ASIA×AUSTIN 2026: Bridging innovation from Silicon Hills to India

At South by Southwest 2026, the ASIA×AUSTIN summit spotlighted Austin as a rising global hub, driving deeper economic and innovation ties between Asia and the city through high-level collaboration and strategic dialogue.

Consul General of India DC Manjunath (third from left) with community members / Special Arrangement

The 2026 edition of South by Southwest (SXSW) marked a pivotal moment in international economic diplomacy with the successful conclusion of ASIA×AUSTIN. 

As an official part of the SXSW program, this summit emerged as the premier platform for deepening collaboration between the Asian continent and the City of Austin, reinforcing the "Silicon Hills" as a global nexus for innovation and economic partnership.

Organized by the Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce (GAACC) in partnership with the Austin Economic Development Corporation (AEDC), ASIA×AUSTIN moved beyond traditional networking to address the strategic convergence of global markets. 

Consul General D. C. Manjunath addressing the event. / Special Arrangement

Landmark Convergence: India and Central Texas

A primary highlight of the summit was the active participation of Consul General D. C. Manjunath, who addressed the inaugural session, "Why ASIA X AUSTIN." 

During his remarks, the Consul General underscored the powerful synergy between India’s national developmental priorities and Austin’s vibrant innovation ecosystem. He specifically identified Artificial Intelligence (AI), semiconductor manufacturing, clean energy, digital commerce, and advanced mobility as the five pillars of future collaboration.

The summit also facilitated high-level diplomatic engagement. Consul General Manjunath interacted with Austin Mayor Kirk Watson, extending a cordial invitation for the Mayor to visit India. This proposed delegation aims to formalize city-to-city collaborations that transcend borders.

 

Audience at the event / Special Arrangement

Strengthening the Foundation

The impact of the summit was further amplified by the involvement of the US-India Chamber of Commerce (Austin). Engagement with their Board Members opened new avenues for mutually beneficial economic initiatives, ensuring that the India–Central Texas partnership is built on a foundation of shared prosperity and technological exchange.

As the 2026 festival concludes, the message from ASIA×AUSTIN is clear: the partnership between these two powerhouses is only just beginning. With a shared commitment to innovation and an ever-deepening economic bond, there truly are "Miles to Go" in this transformative journey.

 

Discover more stories on New India Abroad.

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