Page 7 - Plastics News December 2025

THE PRESIDENT SAYS

The Indian plastics industry stands at an important inflection point - one where growth,
innovation, and responsibility are converging more strongly than ever before. The 2025
has reaffirmed our sector’s resilience and global relevance. As per industry reports, India’s
plastics exports grew by 8% in FY 2024–25, This steady climb is not only a reflection of
our manufacturing strength but also the expanding global trust in Indian plastic products.
The export surge has been broad-based, spanning plastic films and sheets, woven
sacks, tarpaulins, floor coverings, laminates etc indicating healthy performance across
diverse downstream segments. Industry projections signal even stronger years ahead.
Market estimates the Indian plastics market to reach a high point, supported by domestic
consumption, rising global demand, and the sector’s deepening integration with industries
such as packaging, automotive, construction, agriculture, and consumer goods.
Our nation today carries the clear potential to become a global plastics supply hub. With
increasing import substitution, strengthening polymer capacities, and a robust downstream
ecosystem, India is rightly positioned to lead with both scale and quality. Several voices
in global trade and policy circles - including Commerce & Industry Minister Shri Piyush
Goyal have encouraged the industry to double exports in the coming years. This reflects
a strong mandate and trust from the Government of India towards our sector’s capability
and ambition.
Parallel to growth, the government has accelerated its infrastructure and policy support.
The approval of 10 new Plastic Parks marks a significant push towards cluster-based
development, integrated manufacturing, and job creation. Regulatory steps - such as
the updated BIS quality-control framework for polypropylene materials - underscore the
nation’s commitment to standardization, safety, and stronger compliance.

Equally important is India’s shift towards sustainability and circularity. With nearly 978
plastic-waste-management units operational across the country and enhanced
enforcement under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2022, the ecosystem is steadily
maturing. EPR mechanisms, recycling innovations, investment in waste-processing, and
industry-led initiatives are strengthening India’s path to a resource-efficient, circular
plastics economy.

However, we must also acknowledge the headwinds. The deferment of the recycled-
content mandate in rigid plastic packaging has raised concerns among recyclers and
waste-economy partners. Such delays may slow the momentum built around recycling
investments, livelihood security, and long-term sustainability goals. As an apex industry
body, AIPMA will continue to engage constructively with policymakers to ensure that
growth and environmental responsibility advance together.
Looking ahead, platforms such as PLASTINDIA 2026 will play a vital role in showcasing
India's innovations, capabilities, and global partnerships. We remain committed to
empowering industry stakeholders, strengthening MSMEs, and steering the sector
towards sustainable, technology-driven, future-ready growth.
As we move forward, I call upon each member of AIPMA to uphold our shared mission
- to drive excellence, embrace sustainability, and make India a true global leader in
plastics manufacturing and recycling. Together, we can shape an industry that is not only
economically robust but also environmentally responsible and globally admired.

Mr. Sunil Shah
president@aipma.net

December 2025 PLASTICS NEWS 7