"Singapore's Zhong Bu to Establish ₹70 Crore Unit at Perambalur Non-leather Cluster"

Singapore-based Zhong Bu Development Singapore Pte Ltd is set to establish an adhesive factory within the non-leather footwear component cluster in Perambalur, Tamil Nadu. The proposed ₹70 crore investment is expected to generate over 200 job opportunities in the region.

Zhong Bu specializes in the production and sale of high-quality adhesives and related products for the footwear industry, with existing production plants in China, Vietnam, and Indonesia. The company possesses patented technology and engages in technical cooperation with multinational manufacturers in the industry.

To implement the project, Zhong Bu has already established an Indian subsidiary. The commencement of project work is anticipated to be inaugurated by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin at the upcoming TN Global Investor Meet, as announced by the company.

The non-leather footwear component cluster is part of the larger footwear park being developed by Phoenix Kothari Footwear, a joint venture between Kothari Industrial Corporation Ltd and Evervan Group of Taiwan. The Perambalur non-footwear component cluster is expected to accommodate 30 factories, with several overseas players expressing interest in participating.

J Rafiq Ahmed, Chairman of Phoenix Kothari Footwear Ltd, highlighted that the non-leather component cluster aligns with the Make-In-India policy and would adhere to ESG (environment, social, and corporate governance) goals. With a focus on job creation, especially for women, the cluster aims to become a significant contributor to the Indian footwear industry.

Meanwhile, the first factory at the footwear park, JR One Footwear Pvt. Ltd, a joint venture between Phoenix Kothari Footwear Ltd and Shoetown, has already commenced production of the Crocs brand of footwear.

HBL