Incentive scheme for ceramic industry vital
The ceramic industry needs to reduce its cost of production to be
competitive in the international market as the products are known for
its quality and standards worldwide. The Government should provide an
incentive scheme for industrialists to capture opportunities in the
global market, an official of the industry told Daily News Business.
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Workers busy at a ceramic factory |
The industry recorded Rs 4.2 billion in ceramic exports for last year
compared to Rs 5.3 billion in 2008.
The decrease is due to the impact of the global meltdown faced by
major exporting countries.
It is necessary to assist the industry as the demand for the ceramic
products is picking up.
Industrialists should be encouraged to go ahead with the proposed
wage increase of Rs 2,500.
However, it is important to provide some relief for them to meet the
anticipated increase in the cost of production.
The industrialists who perform well should be encouraged to increase
the level of efficiency to bring down energy costs which is a major
factor that contributes for the increase in cost.
It is essential to adopt innovative measures to facilitate low cost
of production,” he said. “The country’s ceramic industry is optimistic
of a better future as the world recession is easing and overseas markets
are improving.
The industry has a good market in Europe and it is important to
concentrate on niche markets and value addition,” he said. SJ
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