T.R.B. Rajaa, Minister for Industries, Tamil Nadu | Photo Credit: Bijoy Ghosh

At the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2025 in Davos, Team Tamil Nadu pitched the State as an emerging destination for research, development and advanced manufacturing in over 50 intensive meetings and engagements.

The delegation, led by State Minister for Industries TRB Rajaa, highlighted the new ambition to move beyond traditional service and manufacturing-based operations towards home-grown innovation and global advanced manufacturing leadership, says a release.

A global food-processing entity is lining up an investment for their FMCG products, while a well-known superfood giant is exploring entry into Tamil Nadu to capitalise on the State’s logistical and agricultural base.

Two major finance players have expressed willingness to establish Global Capability Centres, and two pharma companies are looking to bolster both their GCC presence and are considering setting up manufacturing plants in the State.

Best foot forward

The Tamil Nadu team articulated its comparative advantage over other Indian States to potential investors, citing a deep talent pool, cutting-edge infrastructure and a comprehensive approach to skill development. New and existing industries expressed enthusiasm alike, with long-established players looking to expand and enhance R&D efforts, and newcomers showing keen interest in setting up fresh operations, the release said.

Speaking on a panel on supply chain diversification along with economist Raghuram Rajan, Minister Rajaa underscored the urgency of Tamil Nadu’s transition from service delivery to product creation.

In a series of closed-door discussions, the delegation showcased how Tamil Nadu is preparing an AI-ready workforce through both government-led programmes and partnerships with leading technology organisations.

The State also emphasised its commitment to wider socio-cultural development, with a meeting involving Manchester United exploring the prospect of bringing global standards of football training to Tamil Nadu, especially for women, highlighting the State’s emerging status as a global sports hub, the release said.

Published on January 23, 2025