South India state looks to attract Japan investment

A seminar calling for investment from Japanese companies has kicked off in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.
The area is seen as offering considerable potential for both local demand and exports.

Representatives from 15 Japanese firms took part in the event hosted by the state government and the Japanese Embassy.
They include major manufacturers and trading houses.

Andhra Pradesh houses many ports and is easily accessed from East Asia. Twenty-eight Japanese firms have set up operations in local industrial complexes.

Daily goods maker Unicharm produces paper diapers suited to the humid climate. The company reportedly leads in market share in the product category.

Nishioka Takeshi, general manager of Unicharm India said, "If our diapers help babies sleep without crying, this will reduce the burden on their mothers. We hope that can benefit the social progress of women in India."

Air-conditioner maker Daikin Industries has a factory in the state. It is also said to be a market leader. The company plans to expand its production capacity to meet growing demand in India.