The fastest shift is coming from EVs, where new product platforms create fresh tooling demand for battery pack components, connectors, enclosures, thermal management parts, and lightweight structures,” says Ashish Varma, CEO, Prime Graphite Pvt. Ltd. This interview was taken for DMI 2026.
What key trends, challenges, or growth opportunities do you see in the Indian die and mould industry today? How might they evolve in 2026?
The Indian die & mould industry is at an inflection point. While demand is rising, expectations are rising faster. The biggest trends are higher precision, tighter tolerances, and shorter lead times. In 2026, the winners will likely be those who shift from being only “job shops” to becoming solution partners, offering better design support, faster iterations, reliable delivery, and repeatable quality to meet customers’ rising expectations. Companies will need to respond with a value-based approach in such a tough but promising market.
Which sectors are driving the demand for dies and moulds? What opportunities do they present for the industry?
Today, automotive and auto components remain the biggest demand drivers for dies and moulds, especially for high-volume plastic parts, sheet metal tooling, and die-casting—but the fastest shift is coming from EVs, where new product platforms create fresh tooling demand for battery pack components, connectors, enclosures, thermal management parts, and lightweight structures. Alongside this, electronics and consumer appliances are quietly becoming strong volume sectors because of product variety and frequent model changes, which means steady mould and tooling opportunities for flexible MSMEs. Aerospace and defence offer higher margins but require strict documentation.
How is India’s manufacturing push, for instance, through initiatives like ‘Make in India’ or strategies like China+1, impacting the die and mould industry overall?
India’s manufacturing push and the global China+1 strategy are creating a meaningful tailwind for the die & mould sector because more OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers are expanding capacity in India, and every new product or plant expansion starts with tooling. This shift is increasing demand not only for volume moulds and dies, but also for faster development cycles, prototype tooling, engineering changes, and repeatable quality, which plays well for capable MSMEs. At the same time, global customers now expect international-level delivery discipline, documentation, and process stability, not just low pricing. This new scenario requires a totally new approach in the die and mould industry. One that focuses on value, not price alone.
How are innovations or technologies, such as additive manufacturing, AI, and simulations, shaping the competitiveness of the die and mould industry?
The biggest competitive advantage today comes from technologies that cut rework and lead time. Automation and unattended machining/EDM improve machine utilisation without increasing manpower proportionately. Simulation and mould-flow reduce trial failures by predicting defects early, saving time and cost. Additive manufacturing is useful for rapid prototypes, improving cycle time and part quality. AI-enabled monitoring is emerging through predictive maintenance and parameter optimisation.
What role do initiatives like precision manufacturing and talent development play in expanding the die and mould industry into new markets?
Initiatives like precision manufacturing and structured talent development are critical for the industry to enter higher-value markets. Sectors don’t buy tooling only on price; they buy capability, consistency, and confidence. Precision upgrades (better machining accuracy, process control, inspection, and documentation) help MSMEs qualify for demanding segments like EVs, aerospace, medical, and defence, where repeatability and traceability matter as much as making the tool itself.
How has participating in past DMI exhibitions contributed to growth, networking, or collaborations within the tooling ecosystem?
DMI has been an integral part of our marketing and growth strategy. It is a great place to connect with industry leaders, understand the upcoming technology trends and have insightful conversations with all stakeholders in the die and mould industry.
This interview was published in TAGMA Times Magazine.
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