Speaking to the national press earlier this week, Dalmiya said that although he would be visiting Europe primarily in his capacity as a cricket administrator, he intended to push the Calcutta facility as hard as possible while he was there - especially with suppliers to the major brands in Italy.

When complete, the CLC will comprise three zones covering 160 acres. While most of the units are expected to be taken by producers relocating from Kanpur and Chennai, it is hoped the facility will attract European operators looking for a low cost production base.

A Jeddah based company had already bought land on the complex while discussions were well advanced with another non-Indian leather producer, Dalmiya said.