Page 7 - Plastics News August 2026

THE PRESIDENT SAYS

India’s Plastics Industry Must Now Make For The World

India stands at an important inflection point in its plastics and packaging industry.
For decades, the sector has drawn strength from the country’s vast domestic
market. But the next phase of growth cannot depend on domestic consumption
alone. India must now build its position as a global sourcing hub for plastics and
packaging products.

The message from AIPMA’s conference on ‘India as a Global Sourcing Hub for
Plastics & Packaging Industry’, held in Lucknow on August 13, is both timely and
compelling. With Uttar Pradesh emerging as a major centre for plastics convert-
ers, packaging manufacturers, compounders and MSMEs, taking the export con-
versation beyond traditional metros is itself a strategic move.

The fundamental question is no longer whether India can manufacture. It is wheth-
er India can manufacture for the world.

India’s share of the global market for plastic finished products remains only around
1%, highlighting the enormous opportunity ahead. Free Trade Agreements can
further strengthen India’s position by providing preferential or zero-duty access
to selected markets, subject to rules of origin and other requirements.

However, an FTA only creates an opportunity. Industry must convert that op-
portunity into business by understanding market demand, tariffs, certifications,
quality standards, pricing and buyer expectations. More importantly, Indian manu-
facturers must develop the ability to turn the first enquiry into a long-term global
customer.

MSMEs can play a decisive role. Their flexibility allows them to customise prod-
ucts, respond quickly and serve specialised markets. But flexibility must be com-
bined with quality, consistency, certification, cost competitiveness, sustainability
and timely delivery. Global buyers are not simply looking for low-cost suppliers;
they want reliable long-term partners.

Technology will be another critical differentiator. Automation, artificial intelligence,
digital transformation and B2B marketplaces can help Indian manufacturers im-
prove productivity, quality and market access. Export readiness must therefore
become part of the industry’s broader modernisation agenda.

AIPMA’s Plastiworld initiative shows what focused market access can achieve. At
its March 2026 edition in Mumbai, more than 100 sellers and over 210 buyers from
47 countries participated, with around 2,000 scheduled B2B meetings. The event

August 2026 PLASTICS NEWS 7