The BRICS TimesRussia joins the UPITS 2025 as partner country, while India faces US scrutiny over Russian oil imports.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show (UPITS) at Greater Noida on Thursday morning. The five-day event, running from September 25 to 29, is being held at the India Expo Centre and Mart and features numerous craftsmen and entrepreneurs from across the state.
PM Modi highlighted that Russia is the international partner for this year’s trade show. He said this collaboration reflects India’s commitment to “strengthening the time-tested partnership” with Russia.
Later on Thursday, PM Modi is scheduled to visit Rajasthan to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for several development projects.
All about the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show
The 2025 UPITS carries the theme ‘Ultimate Sourcing Begins Here’. Russia’s role as partner country brings strategic importance and creates avenues for bilateral trade, technology exchange, and long-term collaboration.
The trade show is built on three key pillars — innovation, integration, and internationalization. Its buyer strategy targets three segments: international buyers, domestic B2B buyers, and domestic B2C buyers, offering opportunities for exporters, small enterprises, and consumers alike.
UPITS 2025 will also showcase Uttar Pradesh’s rich craft traditions, modern industries, MSMEs, and emerging entrepreneurs on a single platform. Key sectors on display include handicrafts, textiles, leather, agriculture, food processing, IT, electronics, and AYUSH. Visitors can also experience the state’s vibrant art, culture, and cuisine under one roof.
The event expects participation from over 2,400 exhibitors, 1,25,000 B2B visitors, and 4,50,000 B2C visitors.
Russia’s presence comes at a time when India is under pressure from the United States for importing Russian oil, which the US claims indirectly funds the conflict in Ukraine. India faces steep 50 per cent tariffs, half of which are penalties for buying Russian oil. Nevertheless, India maintains that its oil purchases are guided by market dynamics.
Despite these tensions, the India-US relationship continues to remain robust. A senior State Department official described the bilateral ties as experiencing some “turbulence” but confirmed that a meeting between PM Modi and President Trump will take place in due course.
