Madurai has long been a laggard in industrial development as compared to other parts of Tamil Nadu and India. The only major industries that are in Madurai are TVS, manufacturer of automobile and automobile parts; Fenner, manufacturer of solid woven PVC conveyor belting; and Madura Coats, manufacturer of textiles.

The State and Federal Governments, acknowledging the fact that there has been little industrial development in Madurai district, have adopted a multi-pronged approach to give a much-needed fillip to industrial growth.

The Government has set up industrial estates in different parts of the city to push industrial growth in identified key areas, thus building entrepreneurs and creating new jobs. The following industrial estates are currently operational:

	SIDCO Industrial Estate, K.Pudur
	SIDCO Industrial Estate, Kappalur
	Hoisery Estate, Urangaanpatti
	Electrical and Electronics Industrial Estate, Kappalur
	Automobile Industrial Estate, Kappalur

To reduce unemployment and to promote equitable growth of small-scale industries in all areas, District Industries Centers (DIC) were formed through out the country. DIC's primary objective is to provide aspiring and budding entrepreneurs all necessary assistance. In Madurai, it was formed in 1979. DIC conducts workshops periodically to motivate students of Engineering Colleges, Polytechnics and Industrial Training Institutes and how they can put their entrepreneurial skills to work. DIC also organizes programs to promote entrepreneurship among women.