Tamil Nadu’s Information Technology Minister P. Thiaga Rajan lauded the state’s burgeoning electronics and automotive sectors, pointing to the successful implementation of the China +1 strategy, which has encouraged manufacturers to diversify production away from China.

“The electronics and automotive sector is doing well in Tamil Nadu, and the leather and shoes industry has seen tremendous growth,” he stated.

The China +1 strategy, aimed at reducing reliance on Chinese manufacturing by investing in other countries, has significantly benefited Tamil Nadu, positioning it as a prime destination for electronics manufacturing.

Minister Rajan noted that the shift in iPhone manufacturing from China to India serves as a compelling example of this trend. “If you look at the last 2-3 years, we have moved from being the third or fourth state in manufacturing assembled electronics goods to being number one last year,” he explained. “Much of this growth can be attributed to the China shift, particularly with companies like Apple moving operations to India.”

Rajan emphasised the need for improved government support to ensure that potential investors can easily navigate the opportunities within the Indian market. “It should be easy for people to know about the opportunities in the Indian market,” he said. “The government should handhold individuals and companies to help them seize these opportunities.”

While celebrating the success of the China +1 strategy, Rajan also addressed the challenges that remain. He critiqued India’s goods and services tax (GST) system, calling it a “badly designed and inefficient system.” He pointed out that “the GST Secretariat needs profound reforms,” advocating up to 20 improvements to make it more effective. “The reforms we need to make are to ensure reliability, speed, and transparency in processes,” he said, adding, “These are critical elements that drive investment decisions.”

Rajan further noted that attracting significant investments, particularly in semiconductors and manufacturing, requires a comprehensive understanding of market opportunities. He advocated for better support systems for investors, including assistance with acquiring land and navigating regulatory processes.

“We must make it easier for people to access and become aware of our market and the potential opportunities available,” he stated. “Continuous support is essential until businesses are firmly established.”