The 6th Technology Conference for Growth of Plastic Industry, organized by the All India Plastics Manufacturers Association (AIPMA) recently concluded in Kolkata.

The primary topic of discussion at the conference was the import substitution of plastic items and how this contributes to the advancement of the Atmnirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) strategy, which supports a local plastic manufacturing sector that is self-sufficient.

Esteemed speakers including Mr. Mayur D. Shah, President of AIPMA, and Mr. Arvind Mehta, Chairman of AIPMA’s Governing Council, shared insights into the potential of import substitution to boost the domestic plastic manufacturing industry and reduce India’s dependence on imports.

Mr. Shah emphasized the enormous business opportunity, hoping to use import substitution to bring an additional Rs. 37,500 crores into India.

The event featured a thorough research by AIPMA that showed China was responsible for 48% of the imports of plastic items, valued at 37,500 crore in the fiscal year 2021–2022. AIPMA identified 553 plastic items for import substitution, which is expected to result in a considerable increase in demand for raw materials, equipment, and tools for processing plastics, as well as the creation of almost 5,00, 000 new employment.

The conference, which was sponsored by several government agencies including the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals and the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, emphasized the significance of producing “Make in India – Make for the World” plastic goods. With a history of successful conferences hosted in well-known Indian locations, this 6th conference drew more than 550 business executives, policymakers, scholars, and representatives from the government.

The Guest of Honor, Mr. Manish Chadha, Joint Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, spoke on the role of policy in fostering the growth of the Plastic Industry. 

The conference also featured samples of imported plastic goods, providing local firms with information and chances to capitalize on the possibility of import replacement. Attendees were introduced to the newest developments and technology, enabling the quick development of plastic import substitute items.

The 6th Technology Conference for Growth of Plastic Industry marked another significant step towards a vibrant and cutting-edge domestic plastic industry that is in line with the vision of Atmnirbhar Bharat, with a clear focus on creating a self-reliant plastic manufacturing ecosystem.

Priyanka Dutta