India’s ambition to become a global manufacturing powerhouse is gaining visible momentum as multinational corporations increasingly shift production bases to the country. In recent months, global players like Ford Motor Company, LG Electronics, and HP Inc. have unveiled plans to ramp up manufacturing in India not only for domestic sales but also for international exports.
Ford’s Chennai plant, once slated for closure, has been re-energized to produce nearly 235,000 engines annually for export markets. HP India has committed to locally manufacturing all its personal computers and has hinted at plans to make India an export hub for Asia and Africa. LG Electronics, meanwhile, is expanding its manufacturing footprint in Noida to include premium appliance lines aimed at global markets.
Industry analysts attribute this surge to a confluence of policy reforms, geopolitical shifts, and cost competitiveness. India’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme has provided tangible financial support for high-value manufacturing across sectors such as electronics, automotive components, and chemicals. Furthermore, global supply-chain realignments triggered by trade tensions and post-pandemic logistics challenges have made India a preferred alternative to China and Southeast Asia.
Experts note that India’s robust domestic market adds a dual advantage — enabling firms to meet both internal demand and export commitments. According to a recent Deloitte report, India’s manufacturing output is expected to contribute 25% of the GDP by 2030, up from the current 17%.
However, challenges remain. Infrastructure bottlenecks, logistics delays, and energy reliability issues continue to test industrial productivity. Skill shortages in advanced manufacturing technologies also present obstacles. Yet, industry voices remain optimistic. “The momentum is real this time. Multinationals are not just testing the waters — they’re here for long-term integration,” said Rakesh Kaul, a manufacturing consultant.
For sectors like coatings, materials, and industrial services, this surge opens new opportunities. As global companies set up or scale factories, demand for industrial coatings, plant maintenance, and supplier compliance will rise sharply.
India’s “Make in India 2.0” strategy now emphasizes exports and innovation rather than assembly. If executed effectively, it could mark the beginning of India’s decade as a global production and R&D hub — transforming not just industrial output but employment and technology transfer across the economy.