QuEST developing global SEZ in Karnataka

Bangalore: QuEST Global is developing a global special economic zone (SEZ) in Karnataka with an investment of Rs 200 crore.

The company is working with the US-based Textron Inc for the development of the SEZ.

The SEZ is being built in four phases will give direct employment to 7,500 people.

Quest Global Chairman, Mr Arvind Melligeri, said that his company has also signed an MoU with Sikorsky to explore the possibility of setting up a manufacturing base for components. It has signed expression of interest with five companies as well.

The SEZ, endorsed by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, covers 300 acres and is focused on precision engineering.

As a sector-specific economic zone, this area will provide build-to-suit requirements to companies seeking to establish businesses and manufacturing facilities in the region for the aerospace and defence, industrial and automotive industries. Development of the SEZ, currently in Phase I, began in January 2009.

“With growing demands for defence services and solutions, India is a key country in a region that is important to our international growth,” the Textron Systems President and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Frank Tempesta, said in a statement.

“This SEZ provides a platform for foreign direct investments, products and services in support of the Indian defence industry,” Mr Melligeri said.
Under the terms and conditions of the MoU, Textron Systems and QuEST Global will work together to develop the manufacturing capabilities within the SEZ.

Meanwhile, Aerospace Processing India (API) has announced the opening of its processing facility in Belgaum in Karnataka.

The facility will provide metal finishing treatment services for both export and domestic markets.