India Chem 2024 promotes Gujarat as a chemical hub

Ahmedabad: In the run-up to India Chem 2024, the 13th Biennial International Exhibition and Conference on Chemicals and Petrochemicals, the Union Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, in collaboration with FICCI, hosted an Industry Meet in Ahmedabad today. This event, an important part of the India Chem series, underscored Gujarat’s pivotal contributions to India’s chemical and petrochemical sectors.

Anupriya Patel, Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilisers, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, emphasising the critical importance of the chemical industry in achieving India’s $5 trillion economy vision and commended Gujarat’s key role in the sector.

“Gujarat stands at the forefront of India’s industrial landscape, especially in the chemicals and petrochemical sectors. Gujarat is the leader with a 62% share of India’s petrochemical production, 53% share of chemical production and 45% of the pharma production. The state also accounts for 41% of the chemical and petrochemical exports,” she said.

She added that the central government considers the chemicals and petrochemicals sector a priority and has taken several initiatives to reduce bottlenecks, ease the burden of compliances, and create an investment-friendly environment.

Gujarat’s Industries Minister Balvantsinh Rajput, who was the Guest of Honour at the event, highlighted the state’s strategic role in powering India’s industrial growth.

“Gujarat is the leader in the chemical and petrochemical sectors. The state has a share of 8.4% in the national GDP and 18% share in the overall manufacturing output. The state also accounts for 33% of India’s total exports. The state is home to more than 100 Fortune 500 companies and also 19 lakh MSMEs. Gujarat ranks first in export preparedness and logistics performance index,” he said.

Gujarat, recognised for its leadership in the chemical and petrochemical industry, has been a driving force behind India’s industrial growth. The Industry Meet focused on promoting Gujarat as a global hub, attracting new investments, and showcasing innovations that align with sustainable practices. It also served as a platform for industry leaders, policymakers and other key stakeholders to discuss the future of the sector and explore collaborative opportunities.

The Industry Meet in Ahmedabad was part of a series of events aimed at building momentum towards India Chem 2024, scheduled for October 17-19 in Mumbai. The main event will showcase the latest technologies, innovations and products in the global chemical and petrochemical sectors. The event will also provide a platform for discussing policy issues, regulatory frameworks and sustainable practices that are crucial for the industry’s future.

Nivedita Shukla Verma, Secretary, Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Government of India, Deepankar Aron, Joint Secretary, Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Government of India, Mamta Verma, Principal Secretary, Industries & Mines, Government of Gujarat, Deepak C. Mehta, Chairman of National Chemical Committee of FICCI, and Rajiv Gandhi, Chairman of FICCI Gujarat State Council, were among the other dignitaries present at the meet.

Gujarat’s strategic location, robust infrastructure, and business-friendly policies make it a preferred destination for investment. The state’s proactive role in promoting sustainable practices and green chemistry was a focal point at the Industry Meet, reinforcing its position as a leader in the global chemical industry.

The Industry Meet marked a significant milestone in the journey towards India Chem 2024, setting the stage for continued growth and innovation in Gujarat’s chemical and petrochemical sectors.