Page 9 - Plastics News October 2018

FROM THE EDITOR'S PEN

The Domino Effect

ust when traders were beginning to feel that India’s market sell-off was overdone — with key
Jindices declining from their peak by nearly 14 per cent since August — came Wednesday’s
US market plunge and its domino effect across Europe and Asia, were seen. The effect of US
market crash is seen across the global economy.

This (correction) I feel is somehow the outcome of Donald Triumphs policy of America first
and perhaps it is being stretched it too far. India signed an agreement with Russia last week
for five S-400 air defense systems and in all likelihood would continue buying Iranian crude
despite the American ban. India has sought waiver. This I feel is correct as even India has full
right to protect its interest. Hope this (correction) works.

The weakening of rupee is mocked everywhere but it is just a phase for a raging trade war
between the US and China now threatens world economic growth, that in turn would affect
overall export demand for nations including India. A weaker currency adjusting to external
shocks should be seen as a healthy price signal that can kick in investments to boost exports
Mr. Rajiv B.Tolat
There exist a force and it has its cascading effect; our Industry is no exception. The Plastic
industry is passing through the phase of testing times and the recent announcement by the
Environment Minister of planning to ban plastics packaging material and further if possible
cancellation of License in case the shop is found storing and /or using plastics material, has
created an undue stir in the Industry. The Minister has said it on record that despite the three
month relief, 99% of manufacturers had not yet created a buyback mechanism nor found
recycling solutions (up to September 30) and so strict action would be initiated.
The Domino Effect states that when you make a change to one behavior it will activate a chain
reaction and cause a shift in related behaviors as well. We all know that with the PWM 2016
adhering to Extended Producer’s Responsibility (EPR) is mandatory; though there is ambiguity
and clear guidelines are awaited one should take the lead and try to come to a logical solution.

The onus is equally on all the stakeholders to ensure the Plastic Industry sustains itself without
any further hiccups. If the minister is true then at least we should start with registering for
EPR and keep the ball rolling.

I would like to inform you that we are upgrading our journal and are making some aesthetic
changes as well. You feedback is welcome..
Wishing all our readers Happy Diwali & A Prosperous New Year !!

Rajiv B.Tolat
Hon. Editor
publication@aipma.net

9 October 2018 Plastics News