New Delhi: Cisco’s CEO, Chuck Robbins, announced during his visit to India that the company would establish a manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu, creating 1,200 jobs initially. The plant will produce two of Cisco’s highest volume products – switching networks and cutting-edge router platforms – to meet the growing demand from customers in India. The company aims to generate more than $1 billion in combined domestic production and exports in the coming years.
According to a senior executive, work on the manufacturing facility has already started, and the first batch of products is expected to be rolled out within the next 12 months. In addition to manufacturing capabilities, Cisco is also building core testing, development, and logistics capabilities, as well as expanding in-house repair operations in India. These efforts will support supply chain resiliency, reduce lead times, and enhance the customer experience, ultimately boosting the local economy.
During his visit, Robbins also highlighted the big opportunity for Cisco in India with private 5G, stating that the company is beginning to explore use cases. Additionally, the company builds virtually all the technology needed for public 5G networks and collaborates with major players in India, such as Jio and Bharti.
Robbins noted that four years ago, during his last visit to India, he had a discussion with PM Modi about the need for India to have a supply chain, which is now being addressed. Cisco’s investment in a manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu is a testament to the company’s commitment to India and its continued growth in the region.
