Wipro GE Healthcare's Strategic Investment in India

In a bold move that underscores its commitment to the Indian market, Wipro GE Healthcare, a joint venture between GE Precision Healthcare LLC, USA, and Wipro Enterprises, has announced that its $1 billion investment plans for expansion in India remain unchanged. This decision comes at a time when global manufacturing dynamics are shifting, with US President Donald Trump urging companies to manufacture within the United States to avoid tariffs and benefit from lower tax rates.

Long-term Vision for India and Beyond

Chaitanya Sarawate, managing director of Wipro GE Healthcare and president & CEO of GE HealthCare South Asia, emphasized the company's long-term vision. "Our plans remain unchanged at the moment because it is too early to speculate. We want to be in India for India, but we also want to be in India for the world. That vision has driven the $4 billion investment over the past 35 years and the next $1 billion investment," Sarawate told TOI.

Expanding Manufacturing and R&D Capacities

In 2024, Wipro GE Healthcare announced a significant investment of $1 billion in India, focusing on manufacturing and R&D segments over the next five years. The company currently operates three manufacturing facilities in Bengaluru, producing 30 products, including MR, PET CT, and ultrasound devices, with 50% of the products exported to 70 countries. The company is also exploring the development of embedded AI machines to enhance the efficiency of MRI machines, potentially halving the scanning time for patients.

Exploring New Horizons

Sarawate revealed that the company is conducting a detailed study to evaluate the expansion of its footprint in India. "The study would evaluate whether we should be based in Karnataka, where we are located or does it make sense for us to expand in alternative states. Tamil Nadu is one of the states that we will look at seriously as well. We are looking for scale, talent availability, port connectivity, logistics, and the presence of a supplier base," he said.