Southern Tamil Nadu is rapidly transforming into a major industrial and export powerhouse, driven by large-scale investments, robust infrastructure development, and strategic port expansion. Recent initiatives and investments underline its growing role in India’s global trade network.
Investment Surge
At a recent investors’ conference, Southern Tamil Nadu secured MoUs worth ₹30,100 crore, which are expected to generate approximately 46,450 new jobs across sectors. This reflects a strong investor confidence in the region’s industrial ecosystem.
Key Projects Driving Growth
Several global companies are setting up significant operations in the region:
- VinFast (Vietnam): Established an EV plant in Thoothukudi.
- Royal Golden Eagle (RGE) (Singapore): Investing ₹4,953 crore in a man-made fiber facility in Thoothukudi.
- Hwaseung Enterprises (South Korea): Committing ₹1,720 crore to a large non-leather footwear plant in Gangaikondan, Tirunelveli.
- MSMEs: Collectively investing ₹1,261 crore to create around 1,000 jobs.
Infrastructure Development
The region is witnessing new infrastructure initiatives, including:
- A 250-acre space park and a shipbuilding department in Thoothukudi.
- Facilities for moringa exports and a food processing hub, strengthening agri-based exports.
Logistics & Connectivity
Tamil Nadu is implementing a logistics master plan with multi-modal logistics parks and an air cargo complex. These projects will significantly reduce bottlenecks and enhance export potential.
Port Developments – Twin Engines of Growth
- VOC Port (Thoothukudi): Expanding to become a transshipment hub, deepening berths to handle larger vessels, and diversifying its cargo base.
- Vizhinjam Port (Kerala, managed by Adani Ports): Already handling significant cargo and capable of accommodating ultra-large container vessels. Its strategic location reduces dependency on Colombo and lowers shipping costs.
Emerging Economic Corridor
The combined effect of industrial investments, infrastructure projects, and port expansion is giving rise to a Southern Economic Corridor. This corridor aims to tap cargo flows from both Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, strengthening the region’s logistics competitiveness.
Competitive Positioning
While Vizhinjam provides strategic cost advantages and access to global routes, VOC Port’s diversified cargo base ensures resilience. Together, they form a powerful logistics backbone for Southern India.
Key Investors and Projects in Southern Tamil Nadu
| Investor / Sector | Investment (₹ Crore) | Location | Project Type | Jobs Expected |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VinFast (Vietnam) | NA | Thoothukudi | Electric vehicle plant | NA |
| Royal Golden Eagle (RGE) | 4,953 | Thoothukudi | Man-made fiber facility | NA |
| Hwaseung Enterprises | 1,720 | Tirunelveli | Non-leather footwear plant | NA |
| MSMEs | 1,261 | Various | Multiple small & medium enterprises | 1,000 |
| Overall MoUs | 30,100 | Southern TN | Mixed industrial projects | 46,450 |
Conclusion
With global players like VinFast, RGE, and Hwaseung setting up large projects alongside MSME growth, Southern Tamil Nadu is poised to become a leading industrial and export hub in South India. Supported by strategic port developments at VOC and Vizhinjam and a robust logistics master plan, the region is well on its way to establishing itself as a critical node in global trade networks.
Glottis Limited 
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