Apollo Tyres’ Onkar Kanwar receives Japanese Imperial honour

In its 2018 Autumn Imperial Decorations, the Government of Japan has conferred upon Onkar S Kanwar the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star. The chairman of Apollo Tyres Ltd. received this recognition for his contributions towards strengthening the economic relations between Japan and India, and for promoting Japanese company’s entry into the Indian market.

Commenting on receiving the honour, Onkar Kanwar said: “I would like to thank the Government of Japan for bestowing me with this Order. I am truly honoured to receive it. I would also like to thank the Indian Government, especially, the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) for giving me this opportunity to work towards boosting trade ties between India and Japan.”

Onkar Kanwar has served as the chairman of FICCI India – Japan Business Cooperation Committee since 2005. He actively participated in the discussions that led to the conclusion of the Japan-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Through the convening of regular joint meetings on business cooperation with the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), Kanwar has tremendously contributed to strengthening economic relations between Japan and India, and towards Japanese private investments into India.

As chairman of Apollo Tyres Ltd, Onkar Kanwar has supported the entry of Japanese automotive industries into the Indian market, and their market expansion by supplying compatible quality tyres to Japanese manufacturers. Under his leadership, Apollo Tyres has also introduced Total Quality Management (TQM) and other Japanese philosophies within the organisation.

This latest honour follows Onkar Kanwar’s receipt of the Officers Cross (Civilian Division) of the ‘Order of Merit’ from Hungary in recognition of his work towards strengthening Hungarian-Indian economic relations through the Apollo Tyres’ investment in its Gyöngyöshalász plant.