IAAPI: Key Policy Advocacy Initiatives for the Amusement Industry

New Delhi [India], January 28: The Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI) continues to actively engage with policymakers to support the sustainable growth of India’s amusement sector, which includes amusement parks, water parks, theme parks, and indoor amusement centres. The association’s key advocacy initiatives currently underway are as follows:

1. BIS Certification Relaxation
IAAPI, in collaboration with leading indoor amusement centre operators, is engaging with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to seek relaxation in BIS certification norms for imported amusement equipment. Discussions to date have been constructive, and the industry remains optimistic about a pragmatic outcome that balances safety with ease of operations.

2. GST Rationalisation on Amusement Operations
IAAPI is advocating for a reduction in the GST rate on amusement operations from 18% to 5%, engaging with relevant ministries to ensure that the sector’s concerns are heard and addressed. These efforts are ongoing, with sustained advocacy aimed at fostering the industry’s long-term growth.

3. Collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism
IAAPI is working closely with the Ministry of Tourism to develop a strategic roadmap for the amusement sector. An elite consultancy has been engaged to conduct a comprehensive study and prepare a sector-specific strategy paper, providing actionable recommendations for future growth.

4. White Paper on Indoor Amusement Centres (IACs)
IAAPI is preparing a comprehensive white paper on indoor amusement centres in India. This study—conducted in collaboration with a leading real estate agency—will cover the sector’s history, current landscape, emerging trends, challenges, and growth opportunities.

5. Manufacturing Support & PLI Advocacy
IAAPI is actively pursuing government support to promote domestic manufacturing of amusement equipment, positioning the sector as both an import-substitute and an export-oriented industry. Advocacy for inclusion under the PLI (Production Linked Incentive) framework, inspired by the success of India’s toy manufacturing industry, is in its final documentation stage and will be formally submitted shortly.

IAAPI’s policy advocacy is guided by the exemplary leadership of the 1st and 2nd Vice Chairs, whose strategic guidance and active involvement have been invaluable. The Board of Directors provides ongoing direction and support, while the IAAPI Secretariat plays a critical role in research, coordination, and execution of these initiatives.

Through these efforts, IAAPI remains committed to constructive engagement with the government to enable the long-term, sustainable growth of India’s amusement industry.