SDG 9: Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure | SDG 5: Gender Equality
Institutions: Ministry of Heavy Industries
The UNIDO SDG 9 Progress Report 2025, released on 25 September 2025, shows that global manufacturing value added (MVA) per capita has risen to a record US$1,936 (constant 2015 prices). However, industrial growth has not translated into proportional job creation, with manufacturing employment shares stagnating or declining in many regions. The report warns of sluggish progress in medium- and high-tech sectors, limited access to credit for small-scale industries (only 31% globally), and persistent regional disparities.
Environmental performance has improved, with CO₂ emissions per unit of industrial output falling in Asia and Oceania, but gaps remain in green technology adoption. A dedicated section highlights women in manufacturing, noting continued underrepresentation in high-tech industries and leadership. UNIDO stresses that progress on SDG 9 has multiplier effects on poverty reduction, energy access, health, and education, but achieving this requires stronger policy alignment and financing for inclusive, sustainable industrialisation.
For India, where industrial policy is anchored in PLI schemes, National Manufacturing Policy, and green industrial corridors, the report underscores the need to: link growth with job creation, expand MSME credit access, ensure regional balance, and embed gender equity in industrial planning.
What is UNIDO? → The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is a UN specialized agency that promotes inclusive and sustainable industrial development worldwide. It supports industrial policy, innovation, and green technologies, and is custodian for key SDG 9 indicators.
What is SDG 9? → A global goal to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialisation, and foster innovation. It is considered a “multiplier SDG” because industrial growth drives progress across health, energy, water, and education.
What is MVA? → Manufacturing Value Added (MVA) measures the net output of manufacturing industries in an economy (gross output minus intermediate inputs). Expressed per capita or as GDP share, it is a key indicator of industrialisation and economic competitiveness
What is PLI? → The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme is an Indian government initiative that provides financial incentives to firms based on incremental sales of goods manufactured in India. Launched in 2020 across sectors like electronics, pharmaceuticals, and solar PV, it aims to boost domestic manufacturing, reduce imports, and enhance exports.
Follow the full report here: UNIDO SDG 9 Report 2025 (PDF) | UNIDO Statistical Release