Jabil Inc, a U.S.-based multinational, has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the State government to establish an electronic manufacturing unit in Tiruchi. The company is likely to receive land allocations at the SIPCOT (State Industrial Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu) industrial park located near Manapparai along the Tiruchi-Dindigul highway.

In 2013, the State government issued a G.O. aimed at providing affordable long-term leases for land at the industrial park in Tiruchi district. Following a lengthy land acquisition process, SIPCOT secured 1,096.36 acres in Kannudaiyanpatti, K. Periyapatti, and Chatrapatti near Manapparai. The organization subsequently developed essential infrastructure, including roads, electricity, and drinking water, and began accepting applications for land allotments in 2019.

Out of the 1,096 acres, 131.92 acres have been allocated to the Small Industries Development Corporation (SIDCO), while SIPCOT is currently working on site allotments for interested industries.

Sources indicate that the State government is eager to provide Jabil Inc with the necessary land at the SIPCOT park. The company, known for supplying electronic components to major clients like Apple, Cisco, HP, and Dell, is seeking around 70 acres for its electronics manufacturing unit, with a planned investment of ?2,000 crore.

Should Jabil Inc receive the land allocation, it will become the first major multinational corporation to secure sites at the SIPCOT industrial park in Manapparai, potentially creating around 5,000 jobs.

Despite beginning the allotment process in 2019, industry response has been tepid. However, Jabil Inc’s involvement is anticipated to stimulate interest from other companies looking for land in the industrial park.

A senior official noted that SIPCOT has already allocated land to 13 companies, including five in the food production sector and eight in general engineering. Approximately 80 acres have been leased for 99 years, with 24.45 acres designated for food-based units and 45.65 acres for engineering companies. Those awarded land are currently engaged in construction activities.