Piyush Goyal, the Union Minister of Commerce, has chaired a meeting with stakeholders from the natural rubber sector, organised by the Rubber Board to explore new opportunities.
Discussions focused on strengthening domestic rubber production, advancing mechanisation, and AI for tapping new markets among others.
The Minister also, explored financing options for growers and enhancing certification facilities. He assured the government’s commitment to supporting India’s rubber industry for sustainable growth and global competitiveness.
Stakeholders from Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association (ATMA), All India Rubber Industries Association (AIRIA), Indian Rubber Dealers Federation, Upasi, representatives from rubber growers and industry participated in the meet.
George Valy, President of Indian Rubber Dealers Federation said that the Minister was keen in improving production by getting a better price for growers in traditional areas. The farming community also raised concern on the import of rubber compound, which is hitting them badly.
The Minister has agreed to look into and review the Standard Input and Output norms which facilitate duty free imports of natural rubber under advanced license scheme, Valy said.
The Minister also assured to look into the problems being faced by the growing community including the supply of smoke house to dry rubber sheets, mechanisation of tapping etc, Valy added.