“Government initiatives like Make in India and the global China+1 strategy are significantly boosting domestic manufacturing. This is increasing demand for local tooling suppliers, reducing reliance on imports, and encouraging investment in advanced die and mould technologies. As global companies diversify supply chains, Indian toolmakers are gaining opportunities to become preferred partners in global manufacturing ecosystems,” says Drumil Gandhi, Managing Director, Mutual Engineering Private Limited., in an interview for DMI 2026.
Key trends, challenges, and growth opportunities
The Indian die and mould industry is undergoing a significant transformation driven by increasing demand for precision tooling, shorter product life cycles, and rising localization requirements. Key trends include digitalization, automation, and integration of smart manufacturing practices.
However, challenges such as high capital investment, skill gaps, and dependence on imported high-end tooling technologies persist. By 2026, we expect stronger adoption of Industry 4.0, improved domestic capabilities, and increased exports, positioning India as a competitive global tooling hub.
Demand-driving sectors and opportunities
There are several sectors are fueling demand for Dies and Moulds, which include:
- Automotive & EVs: Transition to electric vehicles is creating demand for new tooling designs and lightweight components.
- Aerospace & Defence: High-precision, low-volume tooling presents premium opportunities.
- Medical Devices: Growing need for micro-moulding and high-precision dies.
- Consumer Electronics: Fast product cycles require rapid tooling solutions.
These sectors offer opportunities in high-precision tooling, prototyping, and specialized materials.
Impact of manufacturing initiatives (Make in India, China+1)
Government initiatives like Make in India and the global China+1 strategy are significantly boosting domestic manufacturing. This is increasing demand for local tooling suppliers, reducing reliance on imports, and encouraging investment in advanced die and mould technologies. As global companies diversify supply chains, Indian toolmakers are gaining opportunities to become preferred partners in global manufacturing ecosystems.
Innovations and technologies shaping competitiveness
Key technologies reshaping the industry include:
- Additive Manufacturing: Enables rapid prototyping and conformal cooling in moulds.
- AI & Data Analytics: Improving predictive maintenance and process optimization.
- Simulation Software: Reduces trial-and-error, saving time and cost.
- CNC Automation & Robotics: Enhances precision and productivity.
Adoption of these technologies is crucial for global competitiveness
Role of precision manufacturing and talent development
Precision manufacturing is essential to meet global quality standards, especially in aerospace, medical, and electronics sectors. Simultaneously, talent development—through skilling programs, apprenticeships, and industry-academia collaboration—is critical. A skilled workforce ensures the effective use of advanced technologies and supports expansion into high-value global markets.
Impact of past DMI participation
Participation in previous DMI exhibitions has been instrumental in:
- Building strong industry networks
- Showcasing capabilities to a wider audience
- Establishing collaborations with OEMs and global partners
- Gaining insights into emerging technologies and market trends
It has significantly contributed to brand visibility and business growth.
Value of DMI 2026 as a platform
DMI 2026 serves as a premier platform for the die and mould industry by:
- Bringing together key stakeholders across the tooling ecosystem
- Offering exposure to global buyers and technology providers
- Facilitating knowledge exchange through seminars and live demos
- Showcasing India’s manufacturing strengths on a global stage
It is a vital event for innovation, collaboration, and business expansion.
Products, technologies, or launches at DMI 2026
At DMI 2026, we plan to showcase:
a) High-Precision Multi-Cavity Injection Mould
- Designed for automotive and medical applications
- Features advanced cooling channels for cycle time reduction
- Ensures high repeatability and dimensional accuracy
b) Smart Tooling System (AI-enabled)
- Integrated sensors for real-time monitoring
- Predictive maintenance capabilities
- Improves tool life and reduces downtime
c) Rapid Prototyping via Additive Manufacturing
- Enables faster design validation
- Reduces development lead time
- Ideal for low-volume, high-complexity components
These solutions demonstrate our focus on precision, efficiency, and digital transformation—key pillars for the future of the die and mould industry.
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