International Business Machines (IBM) is set to resume operations in Visakhapatnam after a gap of six years, a development that is expected to strengthen the region's information technology landscape. The return is being portrayed as a significant boost to Andhra Pradesh's ambitions to establish itself as a leading technology hub. Officials point to the company re-establishing a presence as likely to enhance the city's profile among global technology firms and to support broader efforts to deepen the local IT ecosystem. State IT and Electronics Minister Nara Lokesh confirmed the move through social media and welcomed the company back. IBM India Private Limited has registered operations with the Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) in Visakhapatnam, signalling formal re-entry. Government sources expect the firm to create employment for over 500 professionals in the initial phase and to scale operations subsequently. The presence is anticipated to create opportunities across engineering, services and export-oriented functions. The company is targeting exports worth approximately Rs 3.21 billion (bn) over the next three years, reflecting a robust business outlook. Officials linked the decision to renewed engagement by the state government, noting that discussions during the World Economic Forum in Davos between Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Minister Lokesh and IBM's chief executive officer Arvind Krishna showcased the state's investment potential and policy support. Those interactions and the presentation of infrastructure plans are said to have played a key role in persuading the firm to re-enter the city. IBM had earlier operated from the IT Special Economic Zone in Madhurawada before scaling down its presence, and the return is expected to revive momentum in the region's IT landscape. Observers believe that renewed activity by a multinational of this scale could attract further investment from global firms and strengthen linkages with existing local companies and educational institutions. The state government is positioning the development as part of a broader strategy to accelerate technology sector growth and job creation.