The plastic industry in India had a humble beginning in the year 1957. But the then government did not know what this industry could do for the country's economy. Today, nearly seven decades later, the industry is a major contributor to the economy in both domestic production and exports.

What is the present state of the plastic sector in India?

As per the 2019 PlastIndia report, the total assets of the sector are Rs 5.1 lakh crore. It comprises around 30,000 processing units and 2,000 exporters. And it employs over 4 million people. This significant growth of this sector is attributed to the right government policies, which supported small and medium-sized units by providing them opportunities for growth. It may be mentioned that about 85-90% of the processing units are small and medium-sized enterprises.

The government took the initiative to promote the goods made in the country by setting up the Plastics Export Promotion Council (PLEXCONCIL). Established on 15 July 1955, the council has been made a non-profit organization to project the country as a reliable supplier of high-quality products. It represents over 2,000 exporters who manufacture/trade plastic products including raw materials and finished goods.

The objective of establishing a council was to promote Indian goods in international markets. The Council for Brand Promotion was authorized to participate in international trade fairs and events. India has the strength and the means to become a world leader in plastic production and exports. Also, Indian manufacturers can make all kinds of finished goods from plastic.

In 1996, the Indian government took another step at promoting plastic goods abroad by establishing the India Brand Equity Foundation with the single aim of pushing the export promotion. Unlike PLEXCONCIL, it is a government body purely funded and owned by the government. It acts as a branding and communication partner for the country's participation in global trade exhibitions. It also manages public relations, onsite branding, media advertisements, and digital marketing for exporters.


Plastic production in India

The production of plastic raw materials and finished goods is huge and it is increasing with each passing day. Following are the major types of plastics manufactured in India.

1) Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET or PETE)

It is the most commonly found material as it is used for making beverage bottles, polyester clothing, and ropes. Its advantage is that it is lightweight, strong, and typically transparent. 

2) High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)

It is a strong product with excellent moisture resistance. Due to these qualities, it is considered more suitable for making cartons, containers, and pipes. Examples of HDPE products are park benches, buckets, and detergent bottles. 

3) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC or Vinyl)

It is a hard and rigid material which is more suitable for use in building construction and construction work. Building materials like plumbing pipes, rain gutters, and teething rings are made with this material. In addition, it has found use in the medical industry as it is impervious to microbes and can be easily disinfected.

4) Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)

A refined version of HDPE, it offers a softer, clearer and more flexible option for creating corrosion-resistance work surfaces and liners inside beverage cartons. It is widely used for making plastic wraps, bubble wraps and garbage bags.

5) Polypropylene (PP)

It is a durable material as it has high heat resistance. Since it can hold hot items for a long time, it is used for making food packing and food storage. Straws, prescription bottles, disposable diapers, hot food containers, and DVC/CD boxes are all made from PP material.

Plastic manufacturers in India produce both raw materials and finished goods to meet the needs of both domestic and international markets.