Tamil Nadu secures ₹17,550 crore in foreign footwear investments

Tamil Nadu has been successful in attracting major foreign footwear brands like Nike, Crocs, Puma, and Adidas to invest in the state. These companies are planning to invest around ₹17,550 crore, which could lead to the creation of approximately 230,000 jobs. However, convincing these brands to invest was not an easy task. Many foreign companies had concerns about the quality of the local workforce and the difficulties posed by bureaucratic processes. Tamil Nadu is known for its strong manufacturing sector, but not all districts have benefitted equally from industrialization. The state government now aims to diversify its industrial profile, focusing on non-leather footwear made from synthetic materials. The efforts to attract investment in non-leather footwear began gaining momentum in recent years. Tamil Nadu's minister for industries, T.R.B. Rajaa, highlighted that while the state is already strong in sectors like electronics and automobiles, there is a need for jobs that require less skill and can be produced in larger numbers. The non-leather footwear sector fits this strategy well, presenting an opportunity for growth. Local success stories, like that of P. Jayalakshmi and A. Jaya, reflect the positive impact of this industrial push. These women found jobs in new footwear factories, transforming their financial situations and improving their social standing in the community. Despite being a major player in leather exports, Tamil Nadu is now striving to build an ecosystem for non-leather footwear production. The JR One Kothari factory, which started operating in late 2023, already employs around 2,500 workers, with plans to expand significantly. Further challenges remain, including the need for local suppliers for essential components. The Tamil Nadu government is investing in infrastructure to support this industry, including the establishment of non-leather footwear parks. Additionally, partnerships with Taiwanese manufacturers are vital to ensure successful investment and operation in the state. Overall, Tamil Nadu’s strategic efforts to boost non-leather footwear manufacturing can potentially enhance economic opportunities and community welfare in the region.