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Danfoss Announces ₹1,500 Crore Investment to Expand Data Centre Cooling Business

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Danfoss India, the Indian subsidiary of Danfoss Group, a Denmark-based engineering company specialising in energy-efficient technologies, plans to invest around ₹1,500 crore over the next five years. The investment will support the company’s strategy to expand manufacturing capabilities, accelerate innovation, and tap into emerging opportunities in data centre cooling, compressors, battery energy storage systems, and heat pump technologies. The move comes at a time when rapid growth in data centres and increasing demand for energy-efficient infrastructure are creating new opportunities for advanced cooling and electrification solutions.

Focus on Localisation and Manufacturing Expansion

As part of its expansion strategy, Danfoss India is working to increase localisation of its manufacturing operations. Currently, the company’s localisation level stands at around 55–57%, and it aims to increase this to approximately 80% in the coming years. Ravichandran Purushothaman, President of Danfoss India, highlighted the company’s plans during a media interaction. “We are expanding our localisation; our current localisation is about 55–57 per cent and we want to take it to 80 per cent,” he said. In addition, the company plans to double production capacity at its compressor manufacturing plant in Bengaluru while expanding into new India-led product segments.

Data Centre Boom Drives Cooling Demand

The rising demand for data centre infrastructure is emerging as a major growth driver for Danfoss. With global digitalisation accelerating, the need for advanced cooling systems and energy-efficient technologies has increased significantly. Globally, data centre-related sales now account for about 7% of Danfoss’ total revenue, nearly doubling year-on-year. According to Purushothaman, the company expects this share to increase to around 10–11% in 2026 as investments in digital infrastructure continue to grow.

India Emerging as a Key Market

Danfoss India is currently the fifth-largest market for the Danfoss Group. However, the company expects India to become its third-largest market by 2030. At present, India contributes around 5% of the company’s global revenue, but strong growth in sectors such as infrastructure, marine applications, OEM partnerships, and data centre cooling is driving expansion.

Electrification and Heat Pumps Gain Momentum

Purushothaman believes that global energy disruptions could accelerate electrification across multiple applications, particularly in heating and cooling systems. One technology expected to benefit from this shift is heat pumps, which offer energy-efficient heating solutions and support decarbonisation efforts in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.

As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, by investing in advanced cooling systems, battery energy storage solutions, and heat pump technologies, Danfoss aims to strengthen its position in the global energy-efficient infrastructure and climate solutions market while supporting India’s transition toward a more sustainable energy future.

Biocon Appoints Shreehas Tambe as CEO and Managing Director

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Biocon Limited announced the appointment of Shreehas Tambe as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, effective April 1, 2026. As the first CEO of the integrated Biocon, Tambe will lead the company’s unified platform spanning biosimilars and generics, strengthening Biocon’s ability to scale operations and compete more effectively in global pharmaceutical markets. In addition to this leadership transition, the company has also appointed Kedar Upadhye as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Biocon Limited.

Integration of Biocon Biologics Strengthens Corporate Structure

The leadership changes come as part of the full integration of Biocon Biologics Limited as a wholly owned subsidiary of Biocon Limited. The move creates a simplified and unified corporate structure, enabling the company to operate more efficiently across its core business segments. Through this integration, Biocon aims to strengthen its presence in key therapeutic areas such as diabetes, obesity, oncology, and immunology. The company’s portfolio includes biosimilars, insulins, complex generics, and peptides, including innovative GLP-1 therapies used in metabolic disorders.

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw Highlights Strategic Milestones

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson of Biocon Limited, said, “Biocon has consistently grown by anticipating patient needs and building ahead of the curve. With the integration of our generics and biosimilars businesses, we are creating a uniquely positioned, globally scaled biopharma enterprise,” she said.

Mazumdar-Shaw also credited Tambe with playing a key role in several strategic milestones. These include the acquisition and integration of the Viatris biosimilars business and the expansion of Biocon’s global footprint. Under his leadership, Biocon Biologics has emerged as one of the world’s top five biosimilar companies, achieving a valuation of $5.5 billion. “As the first CEO to lead the combined business, Shreehas brings deep scientific expertise, strategic rigor, and a steadfast commitment to advancing affordable healthcare,” she added.

Tambe Outlines Vision for Global Expansion

Shreehas Tambe expressed, “It is an honour and privilege to lead Biocon at such a pivotal moment as we bring together our biologics and generics businesses to build a leading global medicines company”. He noted that Biocon has been instrumental in improving access to life-saving treatments by leveraging advanced science and technology. Looking ahead, Tambe plans to focus on strengthening the company’s foundation, consolidating operations, and accelerating sustainable growth.

“Our success has been driven by exceptional talent and a shared commitment to addressing patient needs. As we expand our portfolio and global presence, we will continue building on Biocon’s legacy to make a meaningful difference for patients worldwide,” he added.

Positioning Biocon for Global Biopharma Leadership

As per the press release, with the integration of its biosimilars and generics businesses, Biocon is positioning itself as a globally competitive biopharmaceutical company. The new leadership structure is expected to support the company’s ambitions to expand its innovation-driven portfolio and strengthen its global market presence in the coming years.

Cleantech Hiring Surges Amid Capacity Expansion and AI Adoption

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India’s cleantech sector is witnessing a sharp rise in employment opportunities as the country records another year of strong renewable energy capacity additions. The growing momentum in solar, wind, and energy storage projects is driving companies to expand their workforce to support large-scale deployments and advanced technology integration. According to a report by CIEL HR Services, hiring in India’s cleantech sector rose by 57% between November 2023 and November 2025, reflecting the industry’s rapid expansion and growing demand for specialised talent.

Cleantech Sector Expands Across Multiple Industries

The report defines the cleantech sector broadly, covering companies operating in areas such as renewable energy, energy storage, energy efficiency, green transportation, and carbon capture technologies. As these segments continue to grow, companies are increasingly seeking professionals with expertise in both engineering and digital technologies, highlighting the evolving nature of the industry.

Capacity Expansion and Digital Technologies Drive Hiring

Industry leaders say the surge in hiring is largely driven by capacity expansion projects and the integration of advanced digital technologies across operations. B. Preetha, Vice-President – HR and Automation at Swelect Energy Systems, noted that hiring is no longer limited to traditional engineering roles. Instead, companies now require professionals with specialised digital and analytical skills. She explained that AI and digital capabilities are increasingly essential not only in product development but also in functions such as marketing, energy forecasting, supply chain management, and operational efficiency. “Our hiring plans are considering the impact of emerging technologies, ensuring that they are integrated into our current operations as well as our long-term strategy,” Preetha said.

Demand Rising for Specialised Technical Roles

The renewable energy sector is experiencing strong demand for specialised technical professionals. According to Preetha, Swelect Energy Systems has witnessed a 30–35% rise in hiring for high-demand rolesThese roles are critical for supporting the rapid scaling of renewable energy projects across India.

Start-ups Accelerate Hiring in Energy Storage

Start-ups working in emerging technologies are also expanding their teams rapidly. Priyansh Mohan, Co-founder and CEO of Meine Electric, a company developing iron-air based energy storage solutions, highlighted the growing demand for advanced engineering roles. He noted that companies are increasingly seeking product designers responsible for battery architecture and power electronics engineers who develop power conversion systems for energy storage technologies. As Meine Electric scales its operations, the company has increased its headcount by nearly 75% year-on-year, reflecting strong growth in the energy storage segment.

Talent Shortage Remains a Key Challenge

Despite the surge in hiring, industry leaders acknowledge that talent shortages remain a major challenge, particularly in specialised areas such as energy storage technologies and digital integration. Mohan stressed the need for initiatives that expose engineering students early to battery chemistries, applied engineering techniques, and advanced manufacturing processes. Such exposure could help bridge the skill gap and prepare the next generation of cleantech professionals. Preetha emphasized the importance of continuous upskilling, noting that rapid technological advancements require professionals to constantly update their knowledge and technical capabilities.

Shorter Employee Tenure Reflects Fast-Growing Industry

The CIEL report also highlights an interesting workforce trend within the cleantech sector. Because many companies are still in growth or scale-up phases, the median employee tenure stands at around 2.7 years. Employees are often hired for specific stages of development, such as product innovation, pilot projects, or early-stage manufacturing. Once these phases are completed, professionals frequently move to new opportunities within the rapidly expanding clean energy ecosystem.

Outlook: Strong Talent Demand Ahead

With India continuing to expand its renewable energy capacity and invest in next-generation technologies, demand for skilled professionals in the cleantech sector is expected to remain strong. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, as companies integrate AI, digital analytics, advanced materials, and energy storage technologies, the industry will increasingly require multidisciplinary talent capable of driving innovation and supporting India’s transition toward a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

Saatvik Solar Bags Order to Supply Solar Modules

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Saatvik Solar Industries Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Saatvik Green Energy Ltd, secured a ₹638.26 crore order for advanced solar cells, reflecting the rising demand for high-efficiency solar technology in India’s renewable energy sector. The company will supply advanced G12R solar cell modules to a leading solar module manufacturer. Saatvik Solar plans to complete the deliveries by March 2027, further strengthening its role in supporting large-scale renewable energy projects across the country.

Order Strengthens Revenue Visibility

The new contract significantly enhances Saatvik Solar’s order book and long-term revenue visibility. At the same time, it highlights growing customer confidence in the company’s ability to deliver high-quality solar components within committed timelines. By securing this order, Saatvik Solar continues to expand its footprint in India’s rapidly growing solar manufacturing ecosystem, where demand for efficient and reliable technologies is steadily increasing.

Advanced G12R TOPCon Technology for High Efficiency

The modules supplied under the contract will be manufactured using G12R TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) technology, a next-generation solar cell technology known for its higher efficiency, improved energy output, and superior reliability in large-scale solar installations.

Such high-performance solar cells are increasingly being adopted in utility-scale solar parks and commercial solar projects, where efficiency and durability play a critical role in overall project performance.

Currently, Saatvik Solar operates with an installed manufacturing capacity of around 600 MWp. The company is also actively expanding its production capabilities to meet the growing demand from both commercial and utility-scale solar markets.

Company Focuses on Expansion and Advanced Manufacturing

The latest order aligns with Saatvik’s broader strategy to expand its solar cell manufacturing footprint and invest in next-generation solar technologies. Prashant Mathur, CEO of Saatvik Green Energy Limited, emphasized the importance of advanced solar technologies in driving the renewable energy transition.

“This order reflects the growing industry shift toward high-efficiency solar cell technologies and reaffirms our commitment to supporting India’s clean energy transition through reliable, high-performance solutions. We continue to invest in advanced manufacturing and strengthen our capabilities to meet evolving market requirements,” he said.

Supporting India’s ‘Make in India’ Renewable Push

The deal further strengthens Saatvik Solar’s position in India’s solar manufacturing sector and aligns with the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, which aims to boost domestic manufacturing of renewable energy components. As India continues to accelerate its solar power capacity expansion, companies like Saatvik Solar are playing a crucial role in building self-reliant and resilient supply chains for solar technology.

Outlook for Future Growth

As reported by manufacturingtodayindia.com, with several projects and orders in the pipeline, Saatvik Solar aims to sustain its growth momentum while supporting India’s ambitious clean energy targets. By focusing on high-efficiency solar technologies and manufacturing expansion, the company is positioning itself as a key contributor to the country’s renewable energy transition.

PCBL Subsidiary Commissions Carbon Black Production Capacity in Tamil Nadu

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PCBL Chemical Limited announced the successful commissioning of an additional 30,000 metric tons per annum (MTPA) of carbon black capacity at its facility in Tamil Nadu. The expansion was executed through its wholly owned subsidiary, PCBL (TN) Limited. Commercial production from the newly added capacity commenced on March 27, 2026, marking an important milestone in the company’s strategy to strengthen its manufacturing capabilities and meet rising market demand for carbon black.

Strengthening Production Capacity

With this expansion, PCBL aims to further enhance its production capabilities beyond its earlier installed capacity of 2,07,000 MTPA. Before the latest addition, the company had reported a capacity utilisation rate of approximately 88%, indicating strong demand for its products. By increasing output, the company expects to better serve both domestic and international markets where carbon black is widely used in tyre manufacturing, plastics, inks, coatings, and specialty applications.

Brownfield Project Maximises Existing Infrastructure

The new capacity has been developed as a brownfield expansion, allowing PCBL to leverage its existing infrastructure and operational efficiencies. Such projects typically enable faster commissioning and cost optimisation compared to greenfield developments. Although the company has not disclosed the total investment or financing details for the expansion, the additional capacity is expected to significantly strengthen PCBL’s overall manufacturing footprint. As reported by filingreader.com, overall, the new capacity aligns with the company’s long-term growth strategy, which focuses on expanding production, improving operational efficiency, and meeting the increasing demand for carbon black across multiple industrial sectors.

GFCL EV Raises Funds to Expand Advanced Battery Materials Manufacturing

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GFCL EV, a subsidiary of Gujarat Fluorochemicals Limited (GFL), successfully raised an additional $80 million from a global marquee investor, according to an official company announcement. This latest round comes on top of the $50 million investment from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), taking the total capital raised to $130 million. The funding is expected to accelerate the company’s expansion in advanced battery materials manufacturing, a key segment supporting the rapid growth of electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems.

Strategic Funding Strengthens Battery Materials Business

The comprehensive funding structure reflects strong institutional confidence in GFCL EV’s business model and long-term growth strategy. With this capital infusion, the company plans to scale up manufacturing capacity, develop high-value battery materials, and strengthen its presence in global supply chains.

In addition, the investment is expected to create employment opportunities and support India’s energy security goals, while also accelerating the transition toward cleaner transportation technologies.

GFCL EV operates fully integrated manufacturing facilities for battery chemicals, supported by backward integration into critical raw materials. This integrated approach enables the company to maintain supply chain reliability while delivering high-performance materials to customers in the electric mobility and energy storage sectors.

Leadership Highlights Strategic Partnership

Vivek Jain, Chairman of the INOXGFL Group, said, “We are delighted to welcome another marquee investor after IFC as our partner in GFCL EV. This round of financing further reinforces our vision for a greener future supported by IFC’s global expertise and commitment to sustainable development, aiding in accelerating India’s energy transition”.

Dr. Bir Kapoor, Deputy Managing Director and CEO of Gujarat Fluorochemicals Ltd., emphasized, “Together we have achieved a capital raise of $130 million, which will enable us to scale up our manufacturing capacity for advanced battery materials while strengthening our position in the global supply chain”.

Positioning India in the Global Battery Materials Value Chain

The successful funding round places GFCL EV in a stronger position within India’s rapidly evolving battery materials ecosystem. As the global EV market expands, demand for specialized battery chemicals continues to grow, creating new opportunities for manufacturers with advanced capabilities and integrated supply chains. By focusing on innovation, sustainability, and advanced materials development, GFCL EV aims to support the adoption of clean technologies and contribute to reducing emissions in the transportation sector.

Growing Investor Confidence in Clean Technology

The capital raise also highlights increasing investor interest in companies operating in the electric mobility and clean energy sectors. Investors are particularly backing firms that combine strong manufacturing expertise with robust supply chain integration. As reported by scanxtrade, as governments and industries worldwide accelerate their energy transition strategies, companies like GFCL EV are expected to play a key role in building resilient supply chains for critical battery materials.

Merck to Buy Terns Pharmaceuticals to Strengthen Drug Pipeline

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Merck, announced a definitive agreement to acquire Terns Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a clinical-stage oncology company. Under the agreement, Merck will acquire Terns through a subsidiary for $53 per share in cash, valuing the company at approximately $6.7 billion in equity. After accounting for acquired cash, the deal represents a net value of about $5.7 billion. The offer also reflects a 31% premium to Terns’ 60-day volume-weighted average stock price and a 42% premium to the 90-day average, calculated as of March 24, 2026. The acquisition marks another strategic step by Merck to strengthen its presence in oncology and expand its pipeline of innovative cancer therapies.

Focus on Promising CML Drug Candidate

A key driver behind the acquisition is TERN-701, Terns’ lead drug candidate designed for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). The investigational therapy is an oral allosteric BCR::ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) currently being evaluated in the Phase 1/2 CARDINAL clinical trial (NCT06163430). The trial focuses on patients with Philadelphia chromosome-positive (Ph+) chronic phase CML who have previously received at least one TKI therapy and experienced treatment failure, intolerance, or suboptimal response. Notably, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted Orphan Drug Designation to TERN-701 in March 2024, highlighting its potential significance for patients with rare diseases such as CML.

Merck Highlights Strategic Value of the Deal

Merck leadership emphasized that the acquisition aligns with the company’s broader strategy to expand its oncology capabilities. Robert M. Davis, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Merck, stated, “The acquisition of Terns builds on our growing presence in hematology with TERN-701, a potential best-in-class candidate for the treatment of certain patients with chronic myeloid leukemia. This transaction further diversifies and strengthens our position in oncology as we continue to look for opportunities to broaden our portfolio into other therapeutic areas.”

Terns Leadership Welcomes Collaboration

Terns Pharmaceuticals highlighted the potential benefits of combining its research expertise with Merck’s global development capabilities. Amy Burroughs, Chief Executive Officer of Terns, said, “This acquisition reflects our team’s deep commitment to innovation in oncology and developing high-impact medicines. By working together, we will advance TERN-701, leveraging the deep expertise and significant resources at Merck, a global biopharmaceutical leader with a proven track record of delivering cancer breakthroughs”. She also acknowledged the contributions of researchers, investigators, and patients involved in the development of the therapy.

Early Clinical Results Show Encouraging Outcomes

Clinical studies conducted so far suggest that TERN-701 may offer promising therapeutic potential. Early trial data have demonstrated encouraging rates of major molecular response and deep molecular response within 24 weeks of treatment. Importantly, these responses were observed even among patients with high disease burden who had previously undergone multiple treatment lines, including those treated with other allosteric TKIs.

The therapy has also demonstrated a manageable safety profile, with most treatment-related adverse events reported as low grade. Severe adverse events and treatment discontinuations have remained relatively low, while researchers observed no clinically meaningful changes in blood pressure and only limited cases of lipase elevation.

Addressing Unmet Needs in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

According to Dr. Dean Y. Li, President of Merck Research Laboratories, informed that advances in targeted therapies have significantly improved outcomes for CML patients. However, there remains a need for more effective and well-tolerated treatment options. “The first approval of a BCR::ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitor 25 years ago transformed the prognosis for many patients with chronic myeloid leukemia. Despite new therapeutic options, there is still a need for innovative therapies that deliver faster molecular responses and improved disease control,” he said. Dr. Li added that TERN-701’s novel mechanism of action could potentially provide a differentiated treatment option for certain CML patients.

Transaction Structure and Expected Timeline

Both Merck’s and Terns’ Boards of Directors have approved the transaction. Under the merger agreement, Merck will acquire all outstanding shares of Terns through a tender offer initiated by a Merck subsidiary. The acquisition remains subject to several regulatory and shareholder conditions. These include approval by a majority of Terns’ shareholders and the expiration of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act, along with other customary closing conditions. Merck expects the transaction to close in the second quarter of 2026. As per the press release, overall, the acquisition reinforces Merck’s strategy to strengthen its oncology pipeline, accelerate innovation in cancer therapies, and address unmet medical needs in hematologic malignancies such as chronic myeloid leukemia.

EU Chemicals Agency Endorses Restrictions on PFAS ‘Forever Chemicals’

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The European Chemicals Agency has recommended a sweeping European Union-wide ban on PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals,” while allowing limited exemptions for essential uses. The recommendation comes as EU policymakers move closer to introducing legally binding limits on these persistent substances, which are increasingly linked to environmental and health risks.

ECHA’s Risk Assessment Committee formally supported restrictions on the manufacture, sale, and use of PFAS across the EU. The opinion, published marks a significant step toward one of the most comprehensive chemical regulations proposed in recent years.

Roberto Scazzola, Chair of the committee, emphasized “PFAS can cause risks to people and the environment if not properly controlled. An EU-wide restriction is, therefore, an effective measure to reduce these risks”.

Why PFAS Are Called ‘Forever Chemicals’

PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a large group of synthetic chemicals that do not break down easily in the environment. Because of their exceptional resistance to heat, water, and corrosion, manufacturers have used them extensively for decades in a wide range of products.

These substances are found in everyday items such as cosmetics, non-stick cookware, and stain-resistant fabrics. At the same time, they are widely used in industrial applications including aircraft components, electronics manufacturing, and wind turbine systems.

However, their chemical stability means they accumulate in ecosystems, drinking water sources, and even the human body. As a result, scientists and regulators increasingly view PFAS contamination as a long-term environmental challenge.

Rising Health Concerns and Legal Risks

Scientific research has increasingly linked PFAS exposure to serious health concerns. Studies suggest potential connections with liver damage, reduced birth weight, weakened immune responses, and certain cancers, including testicular cancer.

Consequently, litigation risks for manufacturers have grown in recent years, particularly in Europe and the United States. Governments and regulatory agencies are therefore accelerating efforts to tighten restrictions on the production and use of PFAS.

Essential Uses May Receive Exemptions

Despite supporting a broad ban, regulators acknowledge that certain applications currently have no viable alternatives. As a result, the proposed restrictions could include exemptions for essential uses. EU Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall previously indicated that Brussels is considering limited exemptions for critical technologies. These may include PFAS used in asthma inhalers and in semiconductor components essential for electric vehicles and advanced electronics. At the same time, regulators are likely to impose stricter pollution control requirements for sectors that continue to use PFAS under exemption rules.

Second Committee Supports Targeted Restrictions

In addition to the Risk Assessment Committee, the second committee for Socio-Economic Analysis has also evaluated the potential impact of PFAS restrictions. In a draft opinion, the committee broadly supported the proposed ban while recommending targeted exemptions for products where alternatives are not yet available. The committee’s final assessment is expected later this year. Once completed, it will help shape the European Commission’s legislative proposal for binding PFAS restrictions.

Industrial Use Dominates PFAS Consumption

Although PFAS are widely present in consumer goods, industrial applications account for the majority of their use. According to data from Nordic countries’ chemical agencies, sectors such as plastics manufacturing and electronics production consume significant volumes of these substances. As the EU moves toward stricter regulation, industries relying on PFAS are likely to face increasing pressure to develop safer substitutes and adopt alternative technologies.

Next Steps Toward EU Legislation

The opinions issued by ECHA committees will play a key role in shaping the European Commission’s upcoming legal proposal on PFAS restrictions. Brussels is expected to introduce binding regulations once the socio-economic review is finalized by the end of the year. As reported by reurers.com, if adopted, the EU’s proposed measures could become one of the most extensive global efforts to phase out PFAS and reduce long-term environmental contamination.

Engineering Exports Cross $10 Billion Despite Geopolitical Challenges

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India’s engineering goods exports surpassed $10 billion in February 2026, demonstrating resilience despite rising geopolitical tensions and higher logistics costs. According to data from EEPC India, outbound shipments grew 12.9 per cent year-on-year to USD 10.36 billion, compared with USD 9.17 billion in February 2025.

Industry leaders described the performance as a positive signal for exporters, especially as global trade continues to face uncertainty. While freight rates and supply chain disruptions remain a concern, the sector’s growth highlights sustained international demand for Indian engineering products.

Demand Remains Strong Across Key Markets

Export growth was supported by robust demand from several global markets. Out of India’s 25 major engineering export destinations, 17 recorded positive growth during the month. However, exports to the United States and the United Arab Emirates, two of India’s largest markets, declined in February. Shipments to the United States fell 4.9 per cent year-on-year to $1.57 billion, down from $1.65 billion in the same period last year. Similarly, exports to the UAE dropped 14 percent to $591.93 million.

In contrast, exports to China more than doubled, reaching $436.18 million, compared with $207.45 million in February 2025. Other markets that recorded healthy growth included Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and the Republic of Korea.

Geopolitical Tensions Disrupt Trade Routes

Despite the positive export performance, industry leaders remain cautious about the global trade environment. EEPC India Chairman Pankaj Chadha highlighted that exporters are operating in a challenging environment marked by geopolitical instability and economic slowdown in several regions. According to Chadha, recent conflicts involving Iran have disrupted major sea trade routes, affecting shipping schedules and increasing transportation costs.

“Exporters have been facing escalating financial burdens, including war-risk surcharges, high insurance premiums, and extraordinarily high freight costs,” Chadha said. In addition, rising energy prices and shortages of key raw materials have further pressured exporters’ margins, creating additional operational challenges for the sector.

Government Introduces Support Measures

To help exporters manage these disruptions, the Government of India has launched the Rs 497 crore Resilience & Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation (RELIEF) scheme. The initiative aims to provide credit insurance cover to exporters affected by supply chain disruptions linked to the West Asia conflict. Industry stakeholders have welcomed the scheme, viewing it as an important step to mitigate financial risks and sustain export momentum during a period of global uncertainty.

North America Remains the Largest Export Market

Regionally, North America continued to be the largest destination for India’s engineering exports, accounting for 20 percent of total shipments. The European Union followed with 18 per cent, while West Asia and North Africa contributed 15 percent and ASEAN accounted for 11 percent.

However, exports to West Asia and North Africa, other European markets, and the CIS region declined during the April–February period, highlighting the uneven impact of geopolitical tensions and economic headwinds across global markets.

As reported by businessworld.in, while global uncertainties persist, India’s engineering export sector continues to demonstrate resilience, supported by diversified markets, strong industrial demand, and government-backed policy support.

TPL Completes Expansion of Heavy Chemicals Division

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Tamilnadu Petroproducts Limited (TPL) successfully completed the expansion of its Heavy Chemicals Division (HCD) plant. The company announced that the upgraded facility will commence operations on March 28, 2026, marking a key operational milestone in its growth strategy.

TPL disclosed the development through a regulatory filing. The filing confirms that all expansion activities at the Heavy Chemicals Division have been completed after several months of development and engineering work.

Increased Caustic Soda Production Capacity

With the expansion now complete, the HCD will operate with an enhanced production capacity of 250 tons per day (TPD) of caustic soda. The capacity increase will enable Tamilnadu Petroproducts to respond more effectively to growing market demand for caustic soda, which is widely used across industries such as textiles, pulp and paper, alumina refining, and chemicals manufacturing. The company expects the expanded facility to strengthen operational efficiency while supporting long-term business growth in the petrochemicals sector.

Regulatory Compliance and Environmental Clearances

Importantly, Tamilnadu Petroproducts has fulfilled all statutory and regulatory requirements for the expansion project. The company has also secured the necessary environmental clearances, ensuring that the upgraded facility operates in full compliance with environmental and safety standards. By integrating environmental safeguards into the project, the company aims to maintain sustainable and responsible manufacturing practices while scaling up production capacity.

Strategic Step in Growth Plans

The completion of the Heavy Chemicals Division expansion represents a significant step in Tamilnadu Petroproducts’ operational expansion plans. By increasing its caustic soda production capability, the company is positioning itself to capture new market opportunities and strengthen its presence in the petrochemicals industry. As reported by scanx.trade, as the expanded plant begins operations, Tamilnadu Petroproducts is expected to benefit from improved supply capabilities, enhanced production efficiency, and stronger alignment with industry demand trends.

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