In a significant boost to Tamil Nadu’s industrial growth, Chief Minister MK Stalin laid the foundation stone for Hong Fu Industrial Group’s Rs 1,500 crore non-leather footwear manufacturing facility. Located at SIPCOT Industrial Park in Panapakkam, Ranipet, this state-of-the-art project is expected to commence operations by January 2026 and create 25,000 jobs, with 85% of the workforce being women.
Transforming Tamil Nadu into India’s Footwear Capital
The new facility is part of Tamil Nadu’s ambitious mission to become the footwear capital of India, attracting cumulative investments of Rs 6,550 crore across districts like Perambalur, Villupuram, Kallakurichi, Ariyalur, and Ranipet. These initiatives are set to create 86,150 jobs, predominantly benefiting young women.
In a tweet on X, Chief Minister MK Stalin said:
“Another significant outcome is that most of these jobs will be for our young women!”
Hong Fu’s Global Footprint and Entry into India
Hong Fu Industrial Group, based in Taiwan, is the world’s second-largest manufacturer of non-leather athletic footwear, producing 200 million pairs annually and generating $3 billion in revenue.
The group partners with iconic global brands such as:
- Nike
- Converse
- Vans
- UGG
- Puma
- Adidas
- Reebok
- HOKA
- Under Armour
- ON (Swiss sportswear brand)
Hong Fu’s Panapakkam facility will be its first project in India, marking a significant milestone in Tamil Nadu’s industrial landscape.
Why Tamil Nadu?
Hong Fu Chairman TY Chang cited India’s rapid economic development and growing global influence as key reasons for investing in the country. He praised the Tamil Nadu and Indian governments for their unwavering support.
Jacky Chang, Director and CEO of Hong Fu, expressed optimism about the project, emphasizing its potential to set a benchmark for inclusive industrial growth in India.
Timeline and Investment Details
- Initial MoU (April 2022): Rs 1,000 crore investment.
- Additional MoU (January 2024): Rs 500 crore investment.
- Total Investment: Rs 1,500 crore.
Empowering Women and Inclusive Growth
Industries Minister TRB Rajaa highlighted the project as an exemplary model of the Dravidian Model’s commitment to inclusive growth and community empowerment.
Key aspects include:
- Women Empowerment: A majority of the 25,000 jobs will be filled by women, ensuring gender-inclusive growth.
- Rural Development: Targeting underdeveloped districts like Ranipet, Perambalur, and Villupuram for job creation and economic upliftment.
- Global Hub: Reinforcing Tamil Nadu’s position as a leading global footwear manufacturing hub.
Impact on Tamil Nadu’s Industrial Ecosystem
With operations already established in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Myanmar, Hong Fu’s entry into India signifies a major endorsement of Tamil Nadu’s industrial policies and infrastructure. The investment will:
- Strengthen Tamil Nadu’s position as a preferred destination for foreign investments.
- Boost employment, particularly for women in rural areas.
- Enhance India’s capacity for non-leather athletic footwear manufacturing, reducing dependency on imports.
FAQs
1. When will the Hong Fu facility in Ranipet begin operations?
The manufacturing facility is scheduled to start operations by January 2026.
2. How many jobs will the project generate?
The project will create 25,000 jobs, with 85% of positions reserved for women.
3. What products will be manufactured at the facility?
The facility will produce non-leather footwear and athletic footwear products for global brands.
4. Why is Hong Fu investing in Tamil Nadu?
Hong Fu chose Tamil Nadu due to its strong infrastructure, government support, and India’s growing economic and global influence.
5. Which global brands does Hong Fu work with?
Hong Fu partners with leading brands like Nike, Puma, Adidas, Vans, Reebok, and more.
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