As West Bengal eyes major investments in its information technology and electronics sectors, two UK-based technology companies are looking to expand their operations in Kolkata.

Both companies, RedoQ and Praeferre, plan to expand their operations next year. The announcement of the start of operations of these two technology companies came after West Bengal Minister for Information, Technology and Electronics Babul Supriyo met a British delegation in Kolkata on Monday.

The delegation of 17 British companies from the technology sector – particularly artificial intelligence and semiconductors – is currently visiting the city. Britain’s first-ever tech-focused delegation to the city plans to explore business opportunities in West Bengal and eastern India.

“We had an enriching discussion with the British delegates. We look forward to their investments in the technology sector of West Bengal. The state is ready to help them expand their businesses in the state,” Supriyo told the media.

Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner in Kolkata, said: “There are many reasons why UK technology companies want to set up in Kolkata, the biggest being a good working environment and talent pool. During the pandemic, the attrition rate has been found to be low in the city. Fleming accompanied the delegates during the meeting with the minister.

Surya Pratim Mukherjee, vice president of software development at RedoQ, said, “We started our operations in the city with around 250 people. Numbers will more than double next year. »

“Our company works on cybersecurity. We will start operations with around 40 people in Kolkata from January next year,” said Sourav Sengupta, general manager of business development at Praeferre.

EoM