Granite Exports cross Rs.12,000 crore
Despite facing internal hurdles and severe competition from host of
countries such as China, South Africa, Saudia Arabia and Brazil, the
Indian granite exports have grown by 23 per cent in value term during 2013-14. However, it remained more or less similar volume-wise.
According to sources, the Indian industry
faced hurdles due to inconsistent and contradictory leasing policies
followed by the State governments and also due to absence of
export-oriented policies by the Centre that prevented setting up of
large number of EOUs for granites, marble, slates and sandstones near
the quarries and as well as closer to the shipping ports. Besides, only a
few ports in the country had the facilities to handle granite.
During 2013-14, India exported granite blocks worth Rs.12,047 crore
against Rs. 9,766 crore in the previous year. Granite and products
accounted for the majority of exports revenue, followed by other stones
and products, marbles and slate stone. Granite was exported to China and
European countries, and finished marbles to Japan.
“Though there is a growth in the industry, the growth could have been
300 per cent more if the policies were implemented speedily with a
positive approach. On behalf of the industry, we are seeking a uniform
leasing and renewal policy and allowing marble for re-exports without
hassles,” said an industry representative.
Chemical and Allied Export Promotion Council of India, Southern Regional
Chairman, R. Veeramani, said that due to the prevailing negative
factors, the industry performed at 50 per cent of it capacity and it was
time the Centre provided IT exemption on 100 per cent EOUs and float
common brand equity fund for promoters of Indian brand in exports.
“This sector is growing by 5-10 per cent annually, though it faces
severe shortcomings. We have been asking the Directorate General of
Foreign Trade to provide subsidy/incentive to this sector. They have
been denying it citing the progress made by us in the recent times,”
said a granite exporter.