GG News Bureau
London/Scotland, 28 November: Dr Poonam Gupta OBE, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of PG Paper, was awarded the prestigious “90-Year Honour: Legacy in International Trade” award at the recently held International Trade Awards 2025, organized by the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade. The milestone anniversary award recognizes outstanding leaders whose sustained efforts over the years have impacted world trade.
A Special Award for a Historic Milestone
The Legacy Award was introduced this year, to mark the Chartered Institute’s 90th anniversary, to recognize individuals whose work has strengthened international trade systems, inspired innovation and expanded global partnerships. The selection of Dr. Gupta represents her extraordinary impact, her leadership journey, and her influence on UK-global trade relations.
Global Entrepreneur Who Rewrote the Rules
Dr Poonam Gupta came to the UK with an MBA in international business but struggled initially to find proper employment owing to lack of experience. Undeterred, she founded PG Paper in 2003 from her home in Scotland and turned it into one of the country’s most successful import-export firms.
Today, PG Paper works in more than 60 international markets, developing a greater globalization of UK trade and projecting the economic voice of Scotland across continents.
Her leadership has been duly recognised over the years. She has been featured in the ‘100 Most Influential in UK-India Relations’ by the India Inc Group and currently serves as the Vice President of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce and as Chair of the Manufacturing Sector Committee of the FICCI UK Council—two roles that strengthen cooperation between business communities in the UK, Europe and India.
Representing Scotland on the Global Stage
Recently, Dr. Gupta and her husband, businessman and philanthropist Puneet Gupta OBE, joined the UK Prime Minister on the largest UK Government trade mission to India, representing Scottish industry during a crucial week of bilateral trade negotiations. The visit underlined her long-standing commitment to enhancing UK-India commercial ties.
A Champion of Sustainability and Inclusive Growth
Beyond business, Dr Gupta is known for her work on the promotion of sustainable trade, inclusive entrepreneurship and community development. She was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s 2016 New Year Honours List for her services to charity and business.
Her deep association with India is reflected in her philanthropic works. She played an extremely important role during the COVID-19 crisis by facilitating the delivery of over 5,000 oxygen concentrators to several states in India. Besides, she has been actively involved in the empowerment of women, children, gender equality, and wildlife preservation in many countries.
She welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Scotland for COP26, thereby showcasing her pivotal role in strengthening the India–Scotland engagement.
High Praise from the Jury
The International Trade Award judges called Dr Gupta “a fitting winner” for the 90-Year Honour, praising her ability to navigate global challenges in trade and for her vision for a sustainable future in global trading.
“Dr Gupta’s commercial success, innovation, and social impact make her an inspiration for the next generation of trade professionals,” said the jury.
Dr. Gupta’s Explanation
Thanking everyone, Dr. Gupta said:
“I am deeply honored to receive this 90-Year Honour Legacy Award. International trade has been a defining part of my career, and I am so proud of the work PG Paper continues to deliver on the global stage. This recognition reflects not only the dedication of our whole team but also the strong relationships we have built worldwide. Collaboration and resilience have guided me throughout my journey, and this award strengthens my resolve to continue championing opportunity, inclusion, and global partnership.”
About the Awards The International Trade Awards are considered an integral part of the Chartered Institute’s Import Export Show, designed to celebrate excellence, innovation, and leadership within the global trading community.
