CII Manufacturing Competitiveness Study: ‘Raising the Standard: Quality Transformation of Indian Manufacturing’
CII today released the Manufacturing Competitiveness Study, ‘Raising the Standard: Quality Transformation of Indian Manufacturing’.
CII study says, emphasizes quality as a strategic driver for building customer trust, brand reputation, and market access. Sectors like Automotive and Chemicals are leading the adoption of global certifications and quality protocols, while others, including Capital Goods and FMCG, are aligning with international benchmarks to boost exports and revenue growth.
The study identifies key challenges, particularly for SMEs, such as high implementation costs, limited access to technology, and skilled labour shortages. Ambiguities in national standards and inadequate testing infrastructure further impede consistent quality across industries.
To overcome these hurdles, the report calls for targeted investments in technology, enhanced upskilling initiatives, and greater alignment with international standards. It advocates robust Quality Management Plans (QMPs) to ensure compliance, reduce defects, and improve product consistency. Strengthening vendor management and fostering a "quality-first" culture are essential steps to bolster India's position as a trusted global manufacturing hub.
The study concludes with a call for continuous improvement, integration of digital tools, and proactive quality management to position India as a global manufacturing powerhouse. By prioritizing quality, Indian manufacturers can build credibility, drive competitiveness, and secure a leading role in international markets.
Speaking about the report, Deepak Shetty, Chairman of the Council on Manufacturing Excellence, CII and CEO & Managing Director, JCB India Limited, said, “Quality is not just a benchmark; it is the backbone of a sustainable and resilient manufacturing ecosystem. This report provides a roadmap for quality transformation, highlighting key drivers and strategies to help Indian manufacturing achieve world-class standards in a competitive global marketplace.”
Deepak Jain, Co-Chair of the Council on Manufacturing Excellence, CII and Chairman, Lumax Group, said, “Quality is the cornerstone of long-term customer trust, driving market access, brand equity, and operational efficiency—a value increasingly recognized by Indian industry leaders.”
Mr Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, CII, said “In today’s global marketplace, where standards and expectations are continually rising, the emphasis on quality is critical for India’s manufacturing sector. Quality represents much more than product reliability or customer satisfaction; it is a strategic differentiator that has the power to shape India’s competitive positioning worldwide”
As India aspires to become a global manufacturing powerhouse, CII is committed to fostering a culture of quality that permeates every level of the manufacturing ecosystem—from large-scale industries to SMEs. By addressing key challenges, bridging gaps in standards, and promoting investments in advanced technologies and skills, CII aims to work closely with the Government and industry stakeholders to position India as a trusted leader in delivering world-class quality products that meet and exceed global benchmarks.
15 February 2025
New Delhi