“With an annual production of 15.86 million metric tonnes in 2024–25 and a valuation of US$ 22 billion, the industry contributes significantly to sectors such as automotive, agriculture, railways, aerospace, power and industrial machinery. Comprising around 5,000 units (90% MSMEs) and employing over 2 million people, the sector has also recorded exports worth US$ 4.31 billion.” Sushil Sharma, President of the Institute of Indian Foundrymen (IIF) for 2025–26
“The 74th Indian Foundry Congress will mark a milestone showcasing India’s transformation from a conventional manufacturing base to a global high-tech casting powerhouse. The international event will feature cutting-edge technologies and discussions on e-mobility, sustainability and advanced manufacturing. Key attractions include ALUCONF 2026, Defence-focused Sindoor Session, Melt & Match networking, India Foundry Forum for top CEOs and a BRICS Session on global technologies.” Amish Panchal, 74th IFC Organizing Committee Chairman and IIF Past President
“The scale reflects the foundry sector’s rapid growth, with expansive displays featuring smarter furnaces, Vision AI, industrial robotics, alongside casting manufacturers, equipment suppliers and service providers,” he noted. The discussions also underscored ongoing challenges such as skill shortages, environmental regulations and raw material supply volatility.” Subodh Panchal, IFEX 2026 Chairman and IIF Past President
The 74th Indian Foundry Congress (IFC) and IFEX 2026 has commenced at the NESCO Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, bringing together one of the largest congregations of the global metal-casting ecosystem. Organized by the Institute of Indian Foundrymen (IIF), the three-day event from 12–14 February is witnessing participation from industry leaders, policymakers, technology providers and manufacturers, reinforcing Mumbai’s strategic role as a gateway to India’s rapidly expanding foundry sector.
With more than 4,000 member organizations represented through IIF’s nationwide network –four regional offices, 24 chapters and four Centres of Excellence — the event reflects the scale and diversity of India’s casting industry. Delegates from foundries, equipment manufacturers, raw material suppliers, academic institutions, consultants and casting buyers are actively participating in technical sessions, exhibitions and business networking programmes designed to accelerate industry modernization.
Valued at around US$ 22 billion, the foundry industry recorded exports worth US$ 4.31 billion, maintaining a strong trade surplus. Grey iron castings continue to dominate with a 68% production share, while diversified demand from automotive, railways, agriculture, aerospace, power generation and industrial machinery is driving steady growth. Speakers noted that the sector is increasingly adopting automation, cleaner melting technologies, simulation software and 3D printing to enhance productivity and environmental compliance.
President of the Institute of Indian Foundrymen (IIF) for 2025–26, Sushil Sharma stated that the Indian Foundry Industry which is the world’s second largest after China, continues to play a crucial role in driving India’s manufacturing growth and supporting the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. “With an annual production of 15.86 million metric tonnes in 2024–25 and a valuation of US$ 22 billion, the industry contributes significantly to sectors such as automotive, agriculture, railways, aerospace, power and industrial machinery. Comprising around 5,000 units (90% MSMEs) and employing over 2 million people, the sector has also recorded exports worth US$ 4.31 billion,” he said.
Mr. Sharma highlighted the industry’s ongoing modernization with adoption of cleaner, smarter technologies including automation, 3D printing and induction melting. Supported by initiatives like Make in India and increased infrastructure investments, the industry targets US$ 31.77 billion by 2029, fuelled by domestic EV growth and national infrastructure projects.
74th IFC Organizing Committee Chairman and IIF Past President Amish Panchal said, “The upcoming 74th Indian Foundry Congress will mark a milestone showcasing India’s transformation from a conventional manufacturing base to a global high-tech casting powerhouse. The international event will feature cutting-edge technologies and discussions on e-mobility, sustainability and advanced manufacturing. Key attractions include ALUCONF 2026, Defence-focused Sindoor Session, Melt & Match networking, India Foundry Forum for top CEOs and a BRICS Session on global technologies.”
IFEX 2026 Chairman and IIF Past President Subodh Panchal announced that this year’s IFEX exhibition has achieved a new benchmark, spanning more than 15,000 square meters around 20,000 visitors expected this year, the largest in its history. “The scale reflects the foundry sector’s rapid growth, with expansive displays featuring smarter furnaces, Vision AI, industrial robotics, alongside casting manufacturers, equipment suppliers and service providers,” he noted. The discussions also underscored ongoing challenges such as skill shortages, environmental regulations and raw material supply volatility.”
The technical and policy-focused sessions include emerging casting technologies, sustainability strategies and supply chain resilience. The Sindoor Session focusing on the rising demand for specialized castings in defence manufacturing is one of the highlights of the three-day expo.
The Indian Foundry Forum is also bringing together top CEOs to deliberate on growth strategies, while the BRICS Session is facilitating dialogue on cross-border technology partnerships and market access. In addition, the “Melt & Match” initiative is enabling structured business matchmaking between Indian and overseas foundries to strengthen export linkages and technology collaborations.
Participants are showcasing advanced furnaces, industrial robotics, Vision AI solutions, casting equipment, raw materials and logistics services, reflecting the sector’s transition towards smart manufacturing. Live demonstrations and technology showcases will highlight productivity enhancements, digital monitoring systems and sustainable production practices. The exhibition is also facilitating buyer-seller meetings aimed at accelerating commercial partnerships and export growth.
As the event progresses, industry stakeholders emphasize that IFC & IFEX 2026 is not only a knowledge-sharing platform, but also a catalyst for strategic alliances and technology adoption. The strong participation of international buyers and domestic manufacturers is expected to generate new business opportunities and strengthen India’s positioning as a global high-tech casting hub.
With its scale, data-driven discussions and focus on innovation, sustainability and international collaboration, the 74th Indian Foundry Congress and IFEX 2026 is actively shaping the future trajectory of India’s foundry industry while supporting the broader goals of manufacturing growth and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
