During a 17-day US tour aimed at attracting investments, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin met with representatives from Apple, Google, and Microsoft and signed memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with US firms, including Applied Materials, to bolster the Indian state's position as an electronics powerhouse.
According to Mint, the Economic Times, and Business Today, Stalin announced that the state secured investments exceeding INR9 billion (US$107.3 million) during his visit. These investments, spread across Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, and Chengalpattu, are expected to create over 4,100 new jobs in various sectors.
Tamil Nadu and Applied Materials signed an MoU to establish a Center of Excellence for AI-enabled technology development in Chennai. The center will focus on semiconductor manufacturing and equipment, with the potential to generate over 500 technical jobs in the state.
Google revealed plans to explore collaborations with Tamil Nadu for manufacturing its Pixel 8 range of smartphones and fostering the development of an AI ecosystem in the state. The two parties have signed an MoU outlining their commitment to support Tamil Nadu's AI initiatives. As part of this agreement, Google will provide access to advanced technologies and resources to enable individuals, businesses, and government entities in Tamil Nadu to harness AI for inclusive growth.
Meanwhile, companies such as Nokia, PayPal, Yield Engineering Systems, Microchip, Applied Materials, Infinx, Ohmium, and GeakMinds have announced plans to establish new facilities or expand existing operations in the state. These investments are projected to create thousands of jobs and stimulate the local economy.
Stalin emphasized the significance of these investments in achieving Tamil Nadu's goal of becoming a US$1 trillion economy by 2030. The state aims to become a leading knowledge and innovation hub in South Asia. By strengthening its semiconductor ecosystem and developing a skilled talent pool, Tamil Nadu hopes to position itself as a key player in the global semiconductor industry.
Tamil Nadu's electronics manufacturing sector has experienced significant growth in recent years, surpassing Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh to become India's top exporter of electronic goods.
