Image Credit: The Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI)
India’s forging sector took centre stage at the 24th International Forging Congress (IFC 2025), held from October 5 to 10, 2025, in Frankfurt, Germany, as the Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI) showcased the country’s growing strength in advanced and sustainable manufacturing.
AIFI President Yash J. Munot delivered a keynote address highlighting India’s emergence as a technology-driven and globally integrated forging leader committed to innovation and sustainability.
India: The World’s Second-Largest Forging Powerhouse
Speaking on October 8, 2025, on the theme “Forging India’s Future – Partnering with the World,” Mr. Munot outlined the transformation of India’s forging sector from traditional workshops to a cutting-edge, automation-led ecosystem.
He said the Indian forging industry’s progress reflects a new era of Industry 4.0 adoption, artificial intelligence, and digital integration, positioning India as a trusted and scalable partner in global manufacturing networks.
India currently produces 2.9 million metric tonnes of forgings each year, backed by an installed capacity of 4.8 million MT and total investments exceeding USD 3.8 billion. Employing over 300,000 professionals, the sector supplies precision components to the automotive, aerospace, defence, railways, and construction industries.
Exports make up nearly 30% of total production, with a growing presence across Europe, North America, and Asia. The use of energy-efficient furnaces, circular manufacturing methods, and advanced digital tools has further strengthened India’s global competitiveness.
AIFI’s Push for Innovation and Skill Development
During his keynote at IFC 2025, Mr. Munot announced AIFI’s plans to establish a Forging Simulation Centre in Pune by early 2026, aimed at enabling small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to adopt digital process optimisation and improve productivity.
He also announced that the 4th edition of Forgetech India will take place in October 2026, bringing together global industry leaders, researchers, and technology experts to foster innovation and collaboration in the forging value chain.
AIFI at 60: Strengthening India’s Manufacturing Core
Celebrating 60 years of its founding in 1965, AIFI represents more than 200 forging companies across India. The association continues to play a pivotal role in policy advocacy, technology transfer, and global engagement, driving the industry’s transition toward a sustainable and digitally connected future.
With India now ranked as the second-largest forging producer in the world, AIFI’s participation at IFC 2025 in Frankfurt reaffirms the country’s expanding role in shaping the global manufacturing landscape.
