Thoothukudi, a prominent port city in Tamil Nadu, is set to host a massive petrochemical complex with an investment exceeding ₹75,000 crore (approximately $9 billion). This ambitious project is spearheaded by the Sakthi Group of Companies, based in Coimbatore, in collaboration with the UK-based firm Lamant and a significant Qatari investor, marking a substantial inflow of foreign direct investment into the region.
The proposed petrochemical facility will span over 2,000 acres in Thoothukudi, strategically leveraging the city’s port infrastructure to facilitate the import of crude feedstock and the export of finished products. The complex is designed to encompass the entire petrochemical value chain, producing a diverse range of products that are integral to various industries, including plastics, chemicals, and synthetic materials.
This development is anticipated to be a game-changer for Tamil Nadu, as the southern region of India currently lacks a mega petrochemical complex of this scale. The project is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities, with projections of over 10,000 direct jobs and an additional 30,000 to 40,000 indirect jobs, thereby significantly contributing to the local economy.
The establishment of this facility aligns with Tamil Nadu’s strategic vision to position itself as a leading destination for petrochemical investments. The state government has identified chemicals and petrochemicals as sunrise industries, offering additional incentives to attract large-scale projects. This initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce dependency on imports and strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities in the petrochemical sector.
The project’s proponents are currently finalizing the necessary agreements and terms, with plans to commence operations in the near future. The facility is expected to be on par with global standards, comparable to existing complexes in regions like Hazira and Jamnagar, thereby enhancing India’s competitiveness in the global petrochemical market.
In summary, the upcoming petrochemical complex in Thoothukudi represents a significant milestone in Tamil Nadu’s industrial development, promising economic growth, job creation, and a strengthened position in the petrochemical industry.
