Chennai has become the leading manufacturing hub in India and has earned its nickname, the Detroit of Asia, through its industrial feats. By 2026, the Chennai metropolitan area is projected to have a GDP of around $119 billion, with manufacturing accounting for approximately 30% of Tamil Nadu’s total economy. It has a population of more than 165,000 registered manufacturing firms in 15 industrial zones that provide millions of jobs and propel the export economy in India.
Chennai accounts for 60% of Indian automotive exports, 35% of India’s total auto component production, and is the foremost producer of electronics, accounting for 45% of Indian hardware exports. It has excellent infrastructure and a large pool of skilled professionals, supported by leading engineering institutions and well-planned government policies, which continue to attract major companies and international MNCs.
In this blog, I will tell you about the top 15 best Manufacturing Companies in Chennai 2026!
Chennai’s Diverse Manufacturing Landscape
The manufacturing industry in Chennai entails various branches each having its own role to play in the industrial capability in the city. The car industry is in the forefront and foreign companies such as Hyundai, Ford and BMW are building large-scale manufacturing plants. The production of electronics has become very promising whereby companies such as Samsung, Foxconn and Dell have developed high-tech production chains to sell both in local and foreign markets.
The pharmaceutical industry provides yet another strength to the manufacturing scope of Chennai because organisations such as Dr Reddy’s Laboratories and Orchid Pharma manufacture life-saving drugs to sell all over the world. Raw materials are converted to industrial necessities by chemical and petrochemical firms, such as Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited and The Sanmar Group. Major food processing industries such as Britannia Industries and Hatsun Agro Products seal the multi-faceted manufacturing environment, placing Chennai among the most important hubs for manufacturing companies in India, with no major area of modern industry left untouched.
What Makes Chennai a Manufacturing Hub?
The Chennai Metropolitan region has been transformed into a global manufacturing hub, thanks to strategic factors that enable optimal industrial development and innovation.
Chennai’s Manufacturing GDP Contribution
Chennai accounts for about 30% of the state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), with a stable growth of ₹31.55 lakh crore projected for 2024-25. Manufacturing accounts for 33% of the state’s GSDP, making Tamil Nadu the second-largest state economy in India.
The industrial productivity in the city is still rising at remarkable rates, with the latest figures indicating 13.7% annual growth, which clearly shows that Chennai has been central to the economic development in India.
Industrial Estates (Tiruvallur, Sriperumbudur, Ambattur)
Tiruvallur Industrial Belt: Situated in heavy industries, automobile manufacturing plants, and large OEM plants. This zone is close to Chennai Port and has good highway connectivity.
Sriperumbudur Electronics Hub: It is also known as the electronics capital of South India, and this Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is home to manufacturing units of world-renowned companies such as Foxconn, Samsung, Dell, Hyundai, Nokia, and BMW. The region covers 1,500 acres of high-tech production.
Ambattur Industrial Estate: Ambattur is a large small-scale industrial estate in Asia, which accommodates more than 1,000 MSMEs with 2,500 ancillary industries. This cluster focuses on automotive components, engineering products, and precision manufacturing.
Key Sectors Driving Growth
- Automobile Production: Chennai manufactures more than 30% of automobiles in India that have entire manufacturing eco systems composed of OEMs to multi-level suppliers.
- Electronics and hardware: Smartphones, circuit boards, and telecommunications equipment are manufactured in the city, which is the major exporter of electronics in India.
- Auto Components: Chennai is home to 100+ large players in the auto component industry with a market share of 35% including international companies such as Visteon, Delphi, Bharat Forge and Motherson Sumi Systems.
- Petrochemicals & Refining: Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL) manali refinery is a plant that has a refining capacity of 11.64 million metric tonnes per year.
- Heavy Engineering: L&T, Caterpillar and Alstom are some companies that produce construction equipment, industrial machinery and railway parts.
- Pharmaceuticals and chem PC: The city has stood out to be a major center of specialty chemicals, PVC resins and strict environmental compliance pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Comparison Table: Top Manufacturing Companies in Chennai 2026
| Company Name | Founded | Key Products | Team Size |
| Hyundai Motor India | 1996 | Passenger Vehicles, Electric Cars | 10,000+ |
| Royal Enfield | 1955 (Chennai) | Premium Motorcycles | 8,000+ |
| Ashok Leyland | 1948 | Commercial Vehicles, Defense Vehicles | 12,000+ |
| Foxconn India | 2006 | Electronics Assembly, Mobile Phones | 15,000+ |
| Samsung India Electronics | 1995 | Smartphones, Home Appliances | 9,000+ |
| Dell International Services | 2001 | Computer Hardware, IT Solutions | 7,000+ |
| Chennai Petroleum Corporation | 1965 | Petroleum Products, Lubricants | 1,700+ |
| The Sanmar Group | 1972 | Specialty Chemicals, PVC Resin | 5,000+ |
| Hatsun Agro Products | 1970 | Dairy Products, Ice Cream | 10,000+ |
| Britannia Industries | 1980s (Chennai) | Biscuits, Bakery Products | 2,500+ |
| Orchid Pharma | 1992 | APIs, Generic Drugs | 3,000+ |
| Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories | 1990s (Chennai) | Pharmaceuticals, APIs | 2,000+ |
| Tata Motors | Various | Commercial Vehicles, Passenger Cars | 8,000+ |
| Ford India | 1999 | Passenger Vehicles, Auto Parts | 5,000+ |
| Mahindra & Mahindra | Various | SUVs, Commercial Vehicles | 4,000+ |
List of Top 15 Manufacturing Companies in Chennai 2026
1. Hyundai Motor India Limited
- Industry: Automotive
- Founder: Chung Ju-yung (Global), India operations led by management team
- Founded In: 1996
- Ratings: 4.2/5 (Employee satisfaction)
- Headquarters: Seoul, South Korea (India HQ: Chennai)
- Team Size: 10,000+ employees
Hyundai Motor India is the second largest car maker in India and also one of the most successful manufacturing companies in Chennai. This firm had spent more than 4 billion dollars in its Chennai plant, which is the export base of a Korean auto giant. Since its operation, Hyundai in its plant in Chennai, has manufactured over 10 million cars, it has served over 5 million customers within the country and has exported to 88 countries across the world.
The company has been able to sustain its leadership due to constant innovation, superior manufacturing process and customer relations in the Indian passenger car market. The Chennai plant of Hyundai business enterprise includes the state-of-art and use of robotics and eco-friendly processes of production which are in line with the environmental policies across the world.
Key Products: Passenger vehicles (hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs), Electric vehicles, Automotive components, Export-oriented vehicle manufacturing
Job Roles: Automotive engineers, Production specialists, Quality assurance managers, R&D professionals, Supply chain analysts, Export coordinators
- Average Salary: ₹6-18 lakhs per annum
- Website: www.hyundai.com/in
- Address: Plot No. 2, SIPCOT Industrial Park, Irungattukottai, Sriperumbudur, Chennai – 602117
- Phone: +91-44-7180-4000
2. Royal Enfield (Eicher Motors)
- Industry: Automotive (Motorcycles)
- Founder: Albert Eadie and Robert Walker Enfield (Global heritage)
- Founded In: 1955 (Chennai operations)
- Ratings: 4.1/5
- Headquarters: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
- Team Size: 8,000+ employees
Royal Enfield is a quintessence of old times and the efficiency of current production, being among the most famous manufacturing companies in Chennai. Its ability to turn into a premium global brand with its unique character and appeal has already helped the company to leave its well-known image of a traditional motorbike production company behind. Generating annual revenues of more than 1.5 billion dollars, Royal Enfield has made its business known to more than 60 countries with its status as the oldest motorcycle brand in continued production.
The Chennai plant uses advanced production technology utilising the old world craftsmanship that hallmark Royal Enfield Motorcycles. It has established a robust following of motorcycle lovers and will keep reinventing itself with new models that meet the interest of the old as well as the new fan.
Key Products: Premium motorcycles (Classic, Bullet, Himalayan series), Motorcycle accessories, Riding gear, Custom motorcycle solutions
Job Roles: Design engineers, Manufacturing technicians, Quality control specialists, Marketing professionals, After-sales service managers
- Average Salary: ₹5-16 lakhs per annum
- Website: www.royalenfield.com
- Address: Tiruvottiyur High Road, Tiruvottiyur, Chennai – 600019
- Phone: +91-44-2594-6047
3. Ashok Leyland
- Industry: Automotive (Commercial Vehicles)
- Founder: Raghunandan Saran
- Founded In: 1948
- Ratings: 4.0/5
- Headquarters: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
- Team Size: 12,000+ employees
Ashok leyland is the leading commercial vehicle manufacturers in India and most commercial established manufacturing industries in Chennai. The company has developed its brand name over the past 7 decades of high quality in production of trucks, buses and specialized vehicles to fulfill a wide range of purposes. As of 2015, Ashok Leyland has an annual revenue range of 2.5-3 billion and has more than 800,000 customers in logistics industries, public transportation, the defense, and whatever construction sector.
The company has several manufacturing plants in India and its headquarters in Chennai is the hub of operations in the SAARC countries, Middle East and in the African markets. Ashok Leyland has engaged in research and development all the time and thus it has also come up with new car technologies such as electric cars and the use of alternative fuel cars that cater to the environmental issue but at the same time does not compromise the efficiency of the company.
Key Products: Commercial trucks, Buses, Defense vehicles, Electric commercial vehicles, Power generation equipment, Specialized vehicles
Job Roles: Automotive engineers, Operations managers, R&D specialists, Defense project managers, International business developers
- Average Salary: ₹7-20 lakhs per annum
- Website: www.ashokleyland.com
- Address: Ashok Leyland Limited, 1, Sardar Patel Road, Guindy, Chennai – 600032
- Phone: +91-44-2220-0789
4. Foxconn India
- Industry: Electronics Manufacturing
- Founder: Terry Gou
- Founded In: 2006 (India operations)
- Ratings: 3.9/5
- Headquarters: New Taipei, Taiwan (India operations based in Chennai)
- Team Size: 15,000+ employees
Foxconn India is one of the big electronics manufacturing service providers and considered the epitome of modern electronics manufacturing companies in Chennai. Its Indian subsidiary is estimated to earn up to 1–2 billion dollars in revenues and supports major technology players in the whole world such as Apple, Nokia, and Xiaomi, among others. Its Chennai plant has the capacity to manufacture millions of electronic goods per year (including smartphones and consumer electronic gadgets) that penetrate the local and global markets.
Foxconn has established itself as an important node in the worldwide electronic supply chains with the potential of tapping talents and cost-competitive labor in India to meet the demand of making high-quality products. The company is growing to meet its demand through investments in world-class manufacturing technologies and automation as well as skill improvement programs helping in increasing the levels of productivity and quality standards.
Key Products: Mobile phone assembly, Electronic components, PCB assembly, Consumer electronics, Supply chain management solutions
Job Roles: Electronics engineers, Assembly technicians, Quality control specialists, Supply chain coordinators, Process engineers
- Average Salary: ₹4-14 lakhs per annum
- Website: www.foxconnhonhaiindia.com
- Address: SIPCOT Industrial Park, Sriperumbudur, Chennai – 602105
- Phone: +91-44-2717-8000
5. Samsung India Electronics
- Industry: Electronics Manufacturing
- Founder: Lee Byung-chul
- Founded In: 1995 (India operations)
- Ratings: 4.3/5
- Headquarters: Seoul, South Korea (India manufacturing in Chennai)
- Team Size: 9,000+ employees (Chennai operations)
Samsung India Electronics has one of the most technologically advanced manufacturing units in Chennai, thus making the company earn about 10 billion a year globally, which is regarded as a huge contribution to the revenue. Being one of the best manufacturing companies in Chennai, Samsung has become a leader in the production of consumer electronics with the manufacturing of smartphones, televisions, home appliances, and other electronic products.
The Chennai plant serves more than 175 million customers in Indian and supports robust export operations to distinguished markets across South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. The dedication of Samsung to innovation, quality, and local manufacturing leads into heavy investments and the development of abilities in research and development. The company still implements the latest technologies and increases its assortment in order to meet the changes in the needs of consumers in the country and abroad.
Key Products: Smartphones, Tablets, Televisions, Home appliances (refrigerators, washing machines), Consumer electronics
Job Roles: Electronics engineers, Product designers, Quality assurance specialists, R&D professionals, Supply chain managers
- Average Salary: ₹8-25 lakhs per annum
- Website: www.samsung.com/in
- Address: Samsung India Electronics Pvt. Ltd., 6th Floor, DLF Centre, Sansad Marg, New Delhi (Manufacturing: Chennai)
- Phone: 0124-488-1234
6. Dell International Services
- Industry: Information Technology Hardware
- Founder: Michael Dell
- Founded In: 2001 (Chennai operations)
- Ratings: 4.1/5
- Headquarters: Round Rock, Texas, USA (India operations in Chennai)
- Team Size: 7,000+ employees
Dell international services is considered to be one of the most advanced IT hardware manufacturing companies in Chennai which focuses on manufacture, assembly, integration and enterprise solutions in computer hardware. The Chennai plant which is part of Dell operations in India is one of the major contributors to the total revenue of Dell of 3 billion dollars annually because the plant manufactures millions of computing products such as computing devices that are sold to enterprise clients, government agencies, schools and universities as well as individual consumers.
Dell has its manufacturing and service delivery facilities in Chennai, which is an important part of the company’s manufacturing and service delivery network globally, and it also uses the technical skills and cost advantage of India. The facility emphasises servers and storage solutions as well as enterprise computing systems along with any form of complete technical support functions. Dell has been investing in new technologies in manufacturing, automation, and people development to stay ahead of the competition in the fast-changing IT hardware market.
Key Products: Computer hardware assembly, Server solutions, Storage systems, Enterprise IT solutions, Technical support services
Job Roles: Hardware engineers, IT specialists, Supply chain analysts, Customer solutions experts, Technical support professionals
- Average Salary: ₹6-18 lakhs per annum
- Website: www.dell.com/en-in
- Address: Dell International Services India Pvt. Ltd., Block-C, Siruseri IT Park, Siruseri, Chennai – 600130
- Phone: +91-80-6788-0000
7. Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL)
- Industry: Petroleum Refining
- Founder: Government of India
- Founded In: 1965
- Ratings: 4.0/5
- Headquarters: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
- Team Size: 1,700+ employees
Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited is among the leading and best refining manufacturing companies in Chennai, known for producing petroleum products that enhance the energy security framework in India. With an annual turnover of 4 billion dollars, CPCL processes well over hundreds of millions of metric tons of crude oil to manufacture vital petroleum products to be transported, used as power generators, and for industrial use.
It has about 500 large industrial customers across South India, supplying petroleum products to millions of end consumers. CPCL owns modern refineries which include innovative processing units, environmental protection equipment, and safety measures to international standards. The company is also undertaking modernisation activities, capacity increment, and sustainable refining activities that support the objectives of the energy transition in India.
Key Products: Refined petroleum products, Lubricant base oils, Specialty petroleum derivatives, Petrochemical feedstock, Industrial fuels
Job Roles: Chemical engineers, Refinery operators, Process specialists, Safety officers, Environmental compliance managers
- Average Salary: ₹8-18 lakhs per annum
- Website: www.cpcl.co.in
- Address: CPCL Bhavan, 9, Cathedral Road, Chennai – 600086
- Phone: +91-44-2811-4516
8. The Sanmar Group
- Industry: Chemicals and Engineering
- Founder: N. Sankar
- Founded In: 1972
- Ratings: 4.2/5
- Headquarters: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
- Team Size: 5,000+ employees
The Sanmar Group ventures in the form of one of the most diversified chemical manufacturing units in Chennai dealing with specialty chemicals, PVC manufacturing and engineering products. Sanmar engages 2,000 industrial customers worldwide in 45 countries as annual revenues in various business segments are raked in at about 1 billion dollars. The firm has made strategic alliances with global leaders in chemical technology, which has allowed adoption of very advanced manufacturing procedures and eco-friendly technology in production processes.
Due to the high level of environmental protection, innovations, and quality, Sanmar has received a large number of certifications and awards on the part of the industry and governmental organizations. The company continues to expand its global presence and remains focused on sustainable chemical production and environmental responsibility.
Key Products: Specialty chemicals, PVC resin, Industrial valves, Engineering components, Sustainable chemical solutions
Job Roles: Chemical engineers, Research scientists, Product development specialists, Environmental compliance officers, International business managers
- Average Salary: ₹7-22 lakhs per annum
- Website: www.sanmargroup.com
- Address: The Sanmar Group, “Sanmar House,” 3, Dr. P.V. Cherian Crescent, Egmore, Chennai – 600008
- Phone: +91-44-2819-1500
9. Hatsun Agro Products
- Industry: Food Processing (Dairy)
- Founder: R.G. Chandramogan
- Founded In: 1970
- Ratings: 4.1/5
- Headquarters: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
- Team Size: 10,000+ employees
Hatsun Agro products have developed to become India largest companies in the production of private dairy and one of the best food manufacturing companies in Chennai. It has extensive dairy and ice cream activities and processes billions of liters of milk on an annual basis to generate revenue that runs into more than 1 billion dollars annually. Hatsun is the provider of millions of consumers in South India and other markets with the aid of popular brands such as Arokya Milk, Arun Ice creams and Hatsun Curd.
The company has direct access to more than 400,000 rural farmers which forms an effective chain of supply that benefits the farming community besides providing quality raw material in a consistent manner. To remain No.1 in the competitive dairy industry, Hatsun is also investing in the latest technologies in product processing, cold chain infrastructure, and innovation in products.
Key Products: Milk processing, Dairy products (curd, cheese, butter), Ice cream manufacturing, Dairy-based beverages
Job Roles: Food technologists, Dairy science experts, Quality assurance specialists, Rural procurement managers, Cold chain logistics coordinators
- Average Salary: ₹5-15 lakhs per annum
- Website: www.hap.in
- Address: Hatsun Agro Product Ltd., No. 15, Jawahar Road, Cholamandal Artists’ Village, Chennai – 600041
- Phone: +91-44-2449-0388
10. Britannia Industries
- Industry: Food Processing (Baked Goods)
- Founder: Originally by British entrepreneurs, current Indian leadership
- Founded In: 1980s (Chennai operations)
- Ratings: 4.0/5
- Headquarters: Kolkata, West Bengal (Major manufacturing in Chennai)
- Team Size: 2,500+ employees (Chennai operations)
Britania Industries hosts one of the largest food processing units in Chennai that helps to rake in the company a sum of 1.5 billion dollars each year by way of manufacturing an entire line of baked goods. Being one of the long standing manufacturing firms in Chennai, Britannia manufactures billions of biscuits, cakes and other baked goods that cater to hundreds of millions of people in India and even beyond in more than 60 export markets.
The Chennai plant is equipped with state of art technologies in baking as well as packaging technology and strict quality control to give the hallmark of consistent quality and safety of the product. These factors have resulted in the success of Britannia through the constant product innovation, good brand name and presence across network of distribution outlets to urban as well as rural markets. It also has been investing in expanding and developing new products and engaging in sustainable manufacturing processes.
Key Products: Biscuits and cookies, Bread and bakery products, Cakes and pastries, Dairy products, Food packaging solutions
Job Roles: Food engineers, Production managers, Quality controllers, New product development specialists, Brand managers
- Average Salary: ₹5-16 lakhs per annum
- Website: www.britannia.co.in
- Address: Britannia Industries Limited, Poonamallee High Road, Avadi, Chennai – 600054
- Phone: +91-44-2685-5555
11. Orchid Pharma
- Industry: Pharmaceuticals
- Founder: K. Raghavendra Rao
- Founded In: 1992
- Ratings: 3.8/5
- Headquarters: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
- Team Size: 3,000+ employees
Orchid Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Companies (Orchid Pharma) is a leading pharmaceutical manufacturing company in Chennai, dealing with the formulation of active pharmaceutical ingredients and generic drugs. However, even during times of financial restructuring, this company has extensive operations with annual sales of about 200-300 million due to its concentration on antibiotics and anti-infective drugs.
The manufacturing of Orchid is also consistent in generating thousands of metric tons of APIs and billions of units of dosage that serves up to 75 clients in 40 countries. Regulatory approvals have been obtained by the company with the US FDA and EU GMP authorities, allowing the company to access all markets to regulated pharmaceuticals through out the globe. Orchid will still use its technical skills, manufacturing facilities and its regulatory compliance to supply the global pharmaceutical players with its contract manufacturing services.
Key Products: Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), Generic drug formulations, Anti-infective medications, Contract manufacturing services
Job Roles: Pharmaceutical scientists, Quality assurance professionals, Regulatory affairs specialists, Manufacturing pharmacists, R&D researchers
- Average Salary: ₹6-18 lakhs per annum
- Website: www.orchidpharma.com
- Address: Orchid Towers, 313, Valluvar Kottam High Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai – 600034
- Phone: +91-44-4296-2222
12. Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories
- Industry: Pharmaceuticals
- Founder: Dr. Anji Reddy
- Founded In: 1990s (Chennai operations)
- Ratings: 4.2/5
- Headquarters: Hyderabad, Telangana (Major manufacturing in Chennai)
- Team Size: 2,000+ employees (Chennai operations)
Dr. Reddy Laboratories is the name of an advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing plant that is located in Chennai and is a part of the international activity of the company that has a turnover of over $2.5 billion. Being one of the most successful manufacturing companies in Chennai, Dr. Reddy manufactures millions of units of doses of various categories of therapeutic components to be distributed globally to verge of more than 100 nations.
The Chennai unit focuses on cardiovascular drugs, diabetes products, oncology products and pain management products, catering to health care companies and pharmaceutical firms across the world. The firm has high-quality standards and its regulatory compliance with global bodies like the US FDA and the European Medicines Agency. Dr. Reddy is also pulling its resources in high technology manufacturing technology, research and development, and growth of its international pharmaceutical enterprise.
Key Products: Generic pharmaceutical formulations, API production, Cardiovascular medications, Diabetes treatments, Oncology drugs
Job Roles: Formulation scientists, Analytical chemists, Regulatory affairs managers, Manufacturing pharmacists, Quality control specialists
- Average Salary: ₹7-20 lakhs per annum
- Website: www.drreddys.com
- Address: Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd., 8-2-337, Road No. 3, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad (Manufacturing: Chennai)
- Phone: +91-40-4900-2900
13. Tata Motors
- Industry: Automotive
- Founder: Jamsetji Tata
- Founded In: Various periods (Chennai operations)
- Ratings: 4.1/5
- Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra (Manufacturing facilities in Chennai)
- Team Size: 8,000+ employees (Chennai region)
Tata motors have huge manufacturing facilities inside the Chennai area and are also a part of the largest automotive organization of India that holds the talents of producing many varieties of vehicles. The Chennai-based plants of the company operate in the areas of commercial vehicle production, passenger cars manufacturing and automotive component manufacturing which operates to the domestic as well as on the international market. Recent plans also go to the tune of an investment in new manufacturing units (up to the tune of 9,000-crore) that will result in generating of at least 5,000 direct and indirect jobs.
Being one of the established manufacturing firms in Chennai, Tata Motors keeps advancing the electric vehicle facilities, commercial vehicle manufacturing, and exportation. The firm is also a front runner in India in the transformation of the automotive industry through its dedication to the concepts of innovation, sustainability, and high levels of manufacturing technology.
Key Products: Commercial vehicles, Passenger cars, Electric vehicles, Automotive components, Defense vehicles
Job Roles: Automotive engineers, Manufacturing specialists, Electric vehicle developers, Quality assurance managers, Export coordinators
- Average Salary: ₹6-18 lakhs per annum
- Website: www.tatamotors.com
- Address: Various manufacturing locations in Chennai and surrounding areas
- Phone: 1800-209-7979
14. Ford India
- Industry: Automotive
- Founder: Henry Ford
- Founded In: 1999 (India operations)
- Ratings: 4.0/5
- Headquarters: Dearborn, Michigan, USA (India operations based in Chennai)
- Team Size: 5,000+ employees
Ford India is based in Chennai and functions as the initiative of the world automaker to enter the Indian market and to build an export hub of the company. The facility at Chennai symbolized the interest of Ford in superior manufacturing technologies, quality production and development of employees in the automotive industry of India. Despite Ford restructuring its operations in India, it has an impressive heritage of playing a major role in the contribution of automotive manufacturing excellence, technology transfer and the creation of skills at the Chennai centre.
The factory manufactured different models of the Ford motor cars consumed by the local market and export markets without interfering with the overall quality of the cars as mandated by Ford globally but varying local market needs. The Chennai operations helped Ford to build its reputation as a very big automobile manufacturing center.
Key Products: Passenger vehicles, Automotive components, Export-oriented manufacturing, After-sales services
Job Roles: Automotive engineers, Production supervisors, Quality control specialists, Export logistics coordinators, Service technicians
- Average Salary: ₹6-16 lakhs per annum
- Website: www.ford.com
- Address: Ford India Pvt. Ltd., Maraimalai Nagar, Chennai
- Phone: 1800-209-6000
15. Mahindra & Mahindra
- Industry: Automotive
- Founder: Jagdish Chandra Mahindra and Ghulam Mohammed
- Founded In: Various periods (Chennai operations)
- Ratings: 4.0/5
- Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra (Manufacturing operations in Chennai region)
- Team Size: 4,000+ employees (Chennai region)
Mahindra & Mahindra has manufacturing plants in the chennai belt as a part of the biggest SUV manufacturers in India and one of the largest tractor manufacturers in the whole world. The Chennai area operations of the company specialise in the manufacturing of passenger vehicles especially the SUVs and utility vehicles that are targeted at the rural and urban markets around India and abroad.
By dedicating itself to manufacturing electric vehicles, farm equipment, and sustainable mobility solutions, Mahindra has become one of the most innovative manufacturing companies in Chennai. The company is still invested in enhanced manufacturing tools, research and development facilities and growth of its automotive and farm equipment business. One of the tenets of Mahindra’s integrated manufacturing approach is the particularity of its relationships with suppliers, its quality control system, and its environmental protection activities.
Key Products: SUVs, Utility vehicles, Electric vehicles, Automotive components, Farm equipment
Job Roles: Automotive engineers, Manufacturing technicians, Electric vehicle specialists, Quality management professionals, Rural market analysts
- Average Salary: ₹6-17 lakhs per annum
- Website: www.mahindra.com
- Address: Various manufacturing locations in Chennai metropolitan area
- Phone: 1800-2-MAHINDRA
Top Manufacturing Companies in Chennai 2026 – Full Directory
| Name | Founded In | Sector | Key Products | Website | Location |
| Ashok Leyland | 1948 | Automotive | Commercial vehicles, trucks, buses, defense vehicles | www.ashokleyland.com | Ennore |
| Hyundai Motor India | 1996 | Automotive | Passenger cars, SUVs, electric vehicles | www.hyundai.com/in | Sriperumbudur |
| Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL) | 1969 | Petrochemicals | Refined petroleum products, diesel, gasoline, LPG | www.cpcl.co.in | Manali |
| MRF Limited | 1946 | Rubber Manufacturing | Tires, rubber products for automobiles | www.mrftyres.com | Multiple locations |
| Royal Enfield | 1955 | Automotive | Motorcycles, mid-sized bikes | www.royalenfield.com | Tiruvottiyur |
| TVS Motor Company | 1978 | Automotive | Motorcycles, scooters, mopeds, three-wheelers | www.tvsmotor.com | Multiple locations |
| Caterpillar India | 1930 | Heavy Equipment | Construction equipment, mining machinery, diesel engines | www.cat.com | Multiple locations |
| Saint-Gobain India | 1996 | Building Materials | Glass, construction materials, ceramics | www.saint-gobain.co.in | Sriperumbudur |
| Chemplast Sanmar | 1967 | Chemicals | PVC resins, caustic soda, specialty chemicals | www.chemplastsanmar.com | Multiple locations |
| Carborundum Universal (CUMI) | 1954 | Materials Science | Abrasives, ceramics, polymers, electro minerals | www.cumi-murugappa.com | Chennai |
| EID Parry | 1788 | Agro-Industrial | Sugar, bio-products, power, ethanol | www.eidparry.com | Chennai |
| Hatsun Agro Products | 1970 | Dairy | Milk, ice cream, dairy products, paneer | www.hatsun.com | Chennai |
| Nissan Motor India | 1933 | Automotive | Cars, SUVs, electric vehicles | www.nissan.in | Oragadam |
| Ford India | 1995 | Automotive | Passenger cars, commercial vehicles | www.india.ford.com | Maraimalai Nagar |
| Renault India | 2010 | Automotive | Passenger cars, SUVs | www.renault.co.in | Oragadam |
| BMW India | 2007 | Automotive | Luxury cars, motorcycles | www.bmw.in | Chennai |
| Daimler India | 2012 | Automotive | Commercial vehicles, luxury cars | www.daimler-truck.com | Oragadam |
| Foxconn India | 2015 | Electronics | Smartphones, electronics manufacturing | N/A | Sriperumbudur |
| Samsung India | 2007 | Electronics | Smartphones, consumer electronics | www.samsung.com/in | Sriperumbudur |
| Rane Group | 1960 | Auto Components | Steering systems, brake linings, suspension parts | www.ranegroup.com | Multiple locations |
| Michelin India | 2010 | Tire Manufacturing | Tires for cars, trucks, commercial vehicles | www.michelin.in | Chennai |
| Apollo Tyres | 1972 | Tire Manufacturing | Tires, rubber products | www.apollotyres.com | Chennai |
| BGR Energy Systems | 1985 | Power & Oil | Power plant equipment, cleaning systems, boilers | www.bgrenergy.com | Chennai |
| Daikin India | 1995 | HVAC | Air conditioning systems, refrigeration | www.daikin.co.in | Chennai |
| Hitachi | Various | Engineering | Automotive systems, industrial equipment | www.hitachi.co.in | Chennai |
Impact of Manufacturing on Chennai’s Economy and Employment
- Economic Growth: The manufacturing industry accounts for more than 35 per cent of the gross domestic product of Chennai and recorded an output of more than 25 billion dollars yearly, making the city one of the chief industrial centres in India.
- Employment Generation: There are more than 800,000 direct employees working in manufacturing companies in Chennai, as well as in supporting industries, services, and supply chain activities.
- Export Revenue: The manufacturing industries in Chennai add a value of more than 15 billion dollars each year to the export income of India by means of automotive vehicles, electronic products, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and other imported products.
- Infrastructure Development: The huge investments in infrastructure, such as the expansion of the port, the development of road networks, power generation, and telecommunications.
- Technology Transfer: Foreign manufacturing firms have also introduced modern technologies, best practices, automation systems, and quality management procedures.
- Ancillary Industries: The potential of large-scale players has led to the emergence of hundreds of ancillary industries, including component suppliers, logistics providers, and packaging companies.
How to Choose the Right Manufacturing Partner
- Technical Capabilities: The attributes considered in evaluating manufacturing partners include technical capability, manufacturing capacity, quality control systems and certifications, as well as the ability to meet specific product demands while maintaining consistency in large-scale production processes across a variety of manufacturing settings.
- Quality Standards: The quality certifications, the industry standards, the quality control processes, the testing facilities, and the track record of delivering products, which either meet or surpass the expectations of the customers.
- Financial Stability: Assess the financial position, business continuity strategies, investment capacity, and long-term viability of manufacturing partners to ensure stable partnerships.
- Supply Chain Integration: Review partners’ supplier networks, logistics capabilities, inventory management technologies, and their ability to fit into existing supply structures.
- Innovation Capacity: Seek manufacturing allies with research and development capacity, technology assimilation, continuous improvement, and a readiness to partner in product development.
- Regulatory Compliance: Check partners’ adherence to GP EHS compliance, labour standards, safety measures, ARI standards, and other requirements that ensure legal business activity.
Manufacturing Companies in Chennai – Job Vacancies 2026
The manufacturing industry in Chennai offers a wide range of jobs for professionals and experts. Within the city, thousands of production, engineering, quality control, supply chain management and technical service-based jobs are created every year.
Key Job Roles Available:
- Production & Operations
- Engineering & Technical
- Supply Chain & Logistics
- Quality & Safety
- Management & Administration
- Top Hiring Companies 2026
Salary Ranges: Basic jobs begin at ₹2.5-4 lakhs per annum; activities in the middle range at ₹6-15 lakhs; and top managers at ₹20-50+ lakhs, depending on company size and industry.
Job Portals: Naukri.com (20,000+ manufacturing jobs), Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, WorkIndia, TimesJobs, Monster India, company career pages, and manufacturing job-specific job sites.
Conclusion
The production environment in Chennai reflects the city’s outstanding performance, with the following facts about industrial growth and development, technology, and economic dynamics, making it the most vibrant manufacturing destination in India. World-class infrastructure, a quality talent pool, government support, and a strategic location have created an environment where numerous industries and companies, such as automotive giants and pharmaceutical innovators, build a niche and compete successfully with international actors.
These manufacturing firms in Chennai have not just brought a revolution in the economy of the region, but they have also played major roles in industrial growth, export competition and technological strength of India. In the future, the Chennai manufacturing industry is set to grow further, with new opportunities in electric vehicles, renewable energy, advanced electronics, and biotechnology.
Adaptability to market dynamics, sustainable manufacturing practices, and the attraction of foreign investment make the city one of the most prominent manufacturing centres. Chennai is a strong manufacturing partner and investment location for any business, offering unique advantages in operational excellence, cost competitiveness, and growth potential, making it an ideal place to manufacture in the changing global market.
FAQs
Which are the best manufacturing companies in Chennai?
Ashok Leyland, Hyundai Motor India, Chennai Petroleum Corporation, Royal Enfield, TVS Motor, MRF Limited, Caterpillar, Ford India, Renault-Nissan, BMW, Samsung, Foxconn, Saint-Gobain, and Chemplast Sanmar are the best companies.
What manufacturing firms are available in Chennai?
Hyundai, Ashok Leyland, Ford, TVS Motor, Royal Enfield, Caterpillar, Samsung, Foxconn, Daikin, Michelin, Apollo Tyres, and thousands of SMEs in the automotive, electronics, and engineering sectors place their vacancies on Naukri, Indeed and LinkedIn.
Are Japanese manufacturing organizations in Chennai?
Chennai has 30+ Japanese companies such as Nissan, Daikin, Hitachi, Ajinomoto, Denso, Brother International, Yamaha, Toyota Tsusho, etc which are mainly in automotive components, electronics and industrial equipment industries.
Can I download the list of contacts of manufacturing companies?
Some of the contact lists can be obtained via the Dun and Bradstreet business directories, industry associations such as the CII (Confederation of Indian Industry), ACMA (Automobile component manufacturers association), trade portals and online government industrial estate data bases.
What are the significant manufacturing industries in Chennai?
The key industries are automotive manufacturing (30% of India production), auto components (35% market share), electronics hardware (45% exports), petrochemicals, heavy engineering, textiles, pharmaceuticals, rubber products, and precision manufacturing.
What makes Chennai be referred to as the Detroit of India?
Chennai is dubbed the Detroit of India, as it is the centre of automobile manufacturing and contributes to India’s car exports, which exceed 35 per cent. Large-scale manufacturing industries have been established in the city, with major companies such as Hyundai, Ford, BMW, and Royal Enfield setting up plants there.
What are the leading manufacturing industries of Chennai?
The five major manufacturing in Chennai include:
- Automotive (the biggest industry with 300,000+ employees)
- Electronics (Samsung, Foxconn, Dell)
- Chemicals & Petrochemicals (CPCL Sanmar Group)
- Pharmaceuticals (Pharmaceuticals Dr Reddy) (Orchid Pharma)
- Food Processing (Hatsun Agro, Britannia)
Why is Chennai preferable to manufacturing firms?
Chennai is home to world-class infrastructure (a major port and airport), a strong human resource base with access to top institutions such as IIT Madras, government support through tax breaks, a strategic location on the east coast of India for export, cost-competitive operations, and an existing industrial fabric.
What is the percentage contribution of manufacturing to the economy of Chennai?
The manufacturing sector in Chennai provides a contribution of more than 35 per cent to the total GDP of the city and makes a contribution of over 25 billion dollars in a year, and also acts as a direct employer of over 800,000 people and brings in more than 15 billion dollars to the Indian exports annually.
What is the pay rate in the manufacturing firms in Chennai?
The base pay in the manufacturing sector in Chennai ranges from 4 to 25 lakhs per annum; other factors, such as the company, job, and level of experience, can reduce or increase the salary. Senior organisations such as Samsung and Dr Reddy offer packages at higher scales (8-25 lakhs), and at the lower end, the packages begin at 4-6 lakhs.
