Mon Dec 16 07:44:53 UTC 2024: ## Tamil Nadu Attracts Major Investment in Footwear Manufacturing

**Chennai, December 16, 2024** – The Tamil Nadu government continues its drive to boost its economy, securing a significant investment in the footwear sector. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin laid the foundation stone for a new ₹1,500 crore (approximately $180 million USD) non-leather and athletic footwear manufacturing unit in Ranipet district.

The facility, a joint venture dubbed the “Grand Atlanta – Hong Fu India Project,” will be established by Taiwanese company Hong Fu Group on the SIPCOT campus in Panapakkam. It is projected to create approximately 25,000 jobs, with a significant portion (85%) expected to be filled by rural women.

Hong Fu Group manufactures footwear for major international brands including Nike, Converse, Vans, and Puma. This investment underscores Tamil Nadu’s efforts to attract foreign investment and achieve its ambitious goal of becoming a $1 trillion USD economy by 2030. Chief Minister Stalin’s recent international trips to the UAE, Japan, Singapore, Spain, and the US have actively promoted investment opportunities in the state.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, and representatives from Hong Fu Group, including Chairman T.Y. Chang and CEO Jacky Chang.

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