“Global OEMs are shifting supply chains to India, creating opportunities for higher-volume, more complex tooling with global quality standards,” says Prateek Arora, Sr. Manager – Sales & Marketing (Tool/Die Steel), Proterial India Pvt. Ltd. This interview was taken for DMI 2026.
What key trends, challenges, or growth opportunities do you see in the Indian tool steel industry today? How might they evolve in 2026?
Among the key trends, advanced tool steel grades developed through R&D in Japan and Europe are gaining traction in India. The industry is gradually shifting from cost-based selection to total cost of ownership and productivity-driven materials. By 2026, wider adoption is expected as OEMs push for higher efficiency and global-quality tooling. The challenges include higher upfront cost of advanced R&D-driven tool steel grades and limited technical understanding at tool-room and shopfloor levels. The growth opportunity here lies in rising localisation and EV adoption, which are pushing Indian die and mould makers to use advanced R&D-driven tool steel grades.
Which sectors are driving the demand for dies and moulds? What opportunities do they present for the industry?
Automotive, including the EV segment, is the dominant sector driving the demand for dies and moulds. Fueled by localisation, EV expansion, lightweight components, and high-volume production requirements, it creates strong opportunities for high-performance dies and moulds, advanced tool steel grades, and productivity-focused tooling solutions.
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?
The ‘Make in India’ initiative and the China+1 strategy are accelerating localisation of automotive, EV, electronic, and industrial components, directly increasing demand for dies and moulds in India. Global OEMs are shifting supply chains to India, creating opportunities for higher-volume, more complex tooling with global quality standards. This push is driving Indian tool rooms to upgrade technology, adopt advanced tool steels, and focus on productivity and reliability.
How are innovations or technologies, such as additive manufacturing, AI, and simulations, shaping the competitiveness of the die and mould industry?
Additive manufacturing enables rapid prototyping of dies and complex mould components, reducing development time and costs. Automation and robotics improve precision, repeatability, and throughput in tool manufacturing and finishing. AI and ML optimise tool design, predict wear, and enhance process efficiency. Simulations and digital twin technology allow virtual testing of dies/moulds under real operating conditions, reducing trial-and-error, material waste, and development cycles. These technologies collectively enhance productivity, quality, and competitiveness.
What role do initiatives like precision manufacturing and talent development play in expanding the die and mould industry into new markets?
Precision manufacturing enables Indian die and mould makers to produce high-quality, complex tooling that meets stringent global standards, opening opportunities in various sectors. Talent development programs build skilled engineers and technicians capable of handling advanced tool steels, CAD/CAM design, and automation, ensuring consistent quality and innovation.
How has participating in past DMI exhibitions contributed to growth, networking, or collaborations within the tooling ecosystem?
DMI exhibitions provide insights into the latest tooling technologies and global best practices. It creates opportunities to connect with OEMs, suppliers, and technology partners. Participating in DMI exhibitions allows companies to demonstrate their innovative products and solutions. Engaging with international and domestic stakeholders at DMI helps explore new markets and technologies.
What makes DMI 2026 a valuable platform for the die and mould industry to showcase its strengths to domestic or global customers?
DMI 2026 will bring together domestic and international OEMs, suppliers, and industry leaders, providing a platform to showcase Indian tooling capabilities to a global audience. It will facilitate partnerships, collaborations, and client acquisition across various industrial sectors. It will help Indian die and mould manufacturers strengthen credibility and build brand recognition.
This interview was published in TAGMA Times Magazine.
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