India has the potential to emerge as a global manufacturing hub for smart protein processing equipment, according to a landmark study released by The Good Food Institute India (GFI India) in collaboration with the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management, Thanjavur (NIFTEM-T).
The report, titled “India as a Global Manufacturing Hub for Smart Protein Processing Equipment,” was unveiled during the 4th Plant Based Foods Summit held alongside Aahar 2026 in New Delhi. It provides a comprehensive assessment of India’s current capabilities in manufacturing key equipment required for the plant-based protein industry and outlines strategies to strengthen domestic production while reducing reliance on imports.
The study focuses on three critical categories of processing equipment essential for the smart protein supply chain — extruders, dryers and separators. These systems are used to extract plant protein concentrates and isolates that are later processed into plant-based meat, dairy, eggs and seafood alternatives.
According to the report, India imported nearly $1.6 billion worth of centrifuges and filtration equipment in 2024-25, while exports stood at just over $1 billion, highlighting a major opportunity to expand domestic manufacturing capacity.
The research found that India has around 150–200 original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) producing such equipment. While these companies are cost-competitive and mechanically robust, they currently lack the capability for high-precision manufacturing and large-scale production needed for advanced plant-based food processing technologies.
The report also identified technological gaps in areas such as high-moisture extrusion, advanced drying systems and food-grade ultrafiltration membranes. Addressing these gaps would require investments in research and development infrastructure, testing facilities and specialised skill development.
Experts noted that export opportunities exist in regions such as Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Russia, where India’s price-performance advantage could support strong demand.
The study recommends recognising smart protein equipment as strategic capital goods under the Make in India initiative, establishing cluster-based manufacturing infrastructure and aligning Indian standards with international benchmarks.
Industry experts believe these measures could help India build a strong equipment ecosystem and position itself as a key global supplier for the rapidly growing alternative protein sector.