Indian printing, packaging industry seeks import curbs

The Indian printing, packaging and allied industry has sought a ban on import of second-hand machinery, especially due to the challenges posed by China, to nurse its growth and prevent loss of revenue to the exchequer on account of low duties.

"The Indian printing industry is the 12th largest in the world terms of output and also a major contributor to country's economy," said K.S. Khurana, president, Indian Printing Packaging and Allied Machinery Manufacturers Association (IPAMA).

"There is a need to curb the import of second hand machinery that is more than 10 years old, since the government is not receiving the duty from such import," added C.P. Paul, general secretary of the association that is celebrating its silver jubilee this year.

"There is also a threat from China, as our imports from the country are higher. So there is this need that the government provides assistance to us develop the infrastructure," Paul added at an event here to mark the occasion.

Globally, the association said, the printing and packaging industry was growing fast and the turnover was expected to tough $500 billion in five years, against $347 billion now. In India, the turnover is expected to cross $20 billion this year.

Within India, Amritsar is the industry hub, meeting 50 percent of the domestic demand. "More than 250 units are making such machinery at Amritsar," said Khurana, adding that India was also one of the leading exporters of machinery for making newspaper.

The association, which has 300 members, also announced a pact with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry to host Print Arabia exposition in the emirate. Chamber board member Mohamed Salim Al Musharrekh said it was slated April 7-10, next year.

"UAE has emerged as an important centre of printing and packaging industry in the Middle East. This collaboration will help the UAE become a window for Indian players for entry into the new markets in the Gulf, Africa and indirectly Pakistan, Al Musharrekh said.