New Delhi, October 3, 2026: Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has encouraged global sportswear company Nike to deepen its investment and business presence in India, using the brand’s well-known slogan, “Just Do It”, to underline his message.
Goyal met senior Nike executives in Milwaukee, the United States, on the sidelines of the G20 Trade Ministers’ Meeting. The discussion focused on opportunities to strengthen the company’s long-standing engagement with India and explore further cooperation in manufacturing, local sourcing and the country’s sports ecosystem.
Sharing details of the meeting on social media, Goyal said India’s growth prospects offered opportunities for businesses looking to expand their operations. Referring to Nike’s slogan, he said the message on investing in India was simple: “Just Do It.”
The meeting brought together Goyal and three senior Nike representatives: Chief Operating Officer Venkatesh Alagirisamy, Chief Legal Officer Rob Leinwand, and Chief Government and Public Affairs Officer Jorge Casimiro.
Focus on Manufacturing and Local Sourcing
A key part of the discussion was the possibility of increasing Nike’s presence across manufacturing and local sourcing. Greater engagement in these areas could create opportunities for Indian suppliers and strengthen connections between the company’s global operations and domestic industry.
India has been seeking to attract international companies across sectors, with manufacturing and supply-chain development forming important parts of its economic strategy. For global brands, a stronger local presence can also support access to a large consumer market and a growing network of businesses.
Goyal’s comments indicate that the government wants international companies already operating in India to consider expanding their commitments. However, the meeting announcement did not disclose any specific investment amount, manufacturing target or formal agreement involving Nike.
India’s Sports Ecosystem Also on the Agenda
The talks also covered the broader sports ecosystem, suggesting that the engagement was not limited to commercial operations. India’s sports sector includes opportunities in equipment, apparel, athlete development and related services.
A stronger partnership between global sports brands and local stakeholders could contribute to the development of sports-related businesses and infrastructure. The discussion, however, should not be interpreted as confirmation of a new programme or investment until further details are officially announced.
Nike has maintained a presence in India for years, and the company’s engagement with the country has become relevant both from a consumer-market perspective and in the context of its wider global operations.
Nike’s Bengaluru Expansion Plan
The meeting comes shortly after reports that Nike plans to establish a new campus in Bengaluru by the financial year 2028. The proposed facility is expected to support the company’s operations for Nike, Jordan and Converse. Further details, including the campus location, are expected to be shared at a later stage.
The planned Bengaluru campus reflects the company’s longer-term interest in India. It also provides context for Goyal’s appeal to explore additional opportunities in manufacturing, sourcing and sports development.
While the latest meeting does not confirm fresh investment commitments, it highlights the government’s effort to engage directly with major international companies and encourage them to participate in India’s economic growth.
Goyal’s use of Nike’s signature phrase gave the message a familiar touch, linking the company’s own brand identity with India’s invitation to invest. The next step will depend on whether discussions translate into concrete business decisions and publicly announced plans.
