The Tamil Nadu government and the French glass major, Saint-Gobain Vitrage of France, signed an 'expression of commitment' agreement for expansion of their plant at Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu, at a total investment of Rs 500 crore.

The invesment would be made over a period of three years beginning 2004. Saint-Gobain Glass India Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Saint-Gobain Vitrage, began Indian operations in July 2000. It makes a range of glass used in the automotive and construction industries, green glass, reflective glass, solar control products and mirrors.

The expansion works, beginning next year, would be completed in three years time. The expanded plant would produce glasses for motor vehicles and buildings which would be able to withstand the sun rays.

Chairman and President of Saint-Gobain Vitrage, Mr Macques Schenbroich, and Tamil Nadu Industries Secretary, Mr Arun Ramanathan, signed the agreement in the presence of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Ms J Jayalalithaa.