The second-largest producer of consumer goods in the world, Procter & Gamble Co., aims to invest Rs 2,000 crore in Gujarat to establish an export hub for healthcare items, particularly digestives.

The new operation strengthens P&G India's current presence in Gujarat, where it has operated a plant in Sanand, Ahmedabad, since 2015. P&G India now has eight manufacturing facilities throughout the country.

“At P&G, we are committed to partnering in India’s growth journey and have continued to operate as a force for growth and a force for good over the years. The new manufacturing facility in Gujarat is a testament of our belief in the immense growth potential that the country offers. With the new state-of-the-art facility, our objective is to transform India into an export hub for P&G globally," LV Vaidyanathan, CEO, P&G India said.

The manufacturer of Pantene shampoo and Tide laundry detergent has made over Rs8200 crore in investments through its businesses in the nation over the past ten years.

"The fact that P&G chose to put that in India gives a feel for the kind of confidence the company has on the long term prospects here and also using India not just for consumption alone, but also looking at manufacturing," Vaidyanathan told ET.

The new facility, which spans 5.3 lakh square feet, is built to be fully automated and is based on the contemporary idea of "Industry 4.0," according to the statement. It will manufacture items for the digestive wellness market.

For FY22, the company reported sales of Rs 13,985 crore in India and a net profit of Rs 1,334 crore across its four business units: P&G Health, a pharmaceutical company; Gillette, a manufacturer of shaving products; P&G Health & Hygiene; and P&G Home Products.