Auto, pharma cos to continue with Chinese imports till alternatives emerge

In 2018-19, India imported auto components worth $17.6 billion, of which 27 per cent -- $4.75 billion -- were from China

Imports from China are expected to continue for the time being till other feasible and cost-effective alternatives emerge, according to players in Indian automobile and pharmaceutical industries.

Days after a deadly border clash with China that saw 20 Indian soldiers losing their lives, there has been a call from various quarters to cut imports from the neighbouring country.

Indian auto and pharma industries import several critical components and raw materials from China.

Currently, companies based out of China continue to be the leading suppliers of automotive components for the domestic industry.

In 2018-19, India imported auto components worth $17.6 billion,