The Plastics Export Promotion Council (PLEXCONCIL), established in 1955, is one of several Export Promotion Councils launched by the Government to project India’s image abroad as a reliable supplier of high quality products in order to give a boost to the country’s exports. PLEXCONCIL is the apex body of the plastics industry in India and represents over 2,500 exporters who manufacture/trade in plastics products ranging from plastics raw materials to semi-finished and finished items.
In an exclusive interview with Indian Economy & Market, Mr. Sribash Dasmohapatra, the Executive Director, PLEXCONCIL, shares Council’s notable achievements which has transformed India into a global meeting point for buyers, innovators, and partners shaping the industry’s global trajectory.
“PLEXCONCIL Remains Committed to Expanding Global Opportunities for Indian Exporters”
There are many disruptions across the entire economy and industry in these critical times. Your take?
There are indeed many disruptions across the economy and industry today – but disruption is not always a setback. In many ways, it is the new reality of global business. Companies that recognise this shift early are the ones that build resilience and long-term competitiveness. Disruptions – whether geopolitical, economic, technological, or policy-driven – are becoming more frequent. But they also create opportunities. They push industries to innovate, improve efficiency and rethink old models. If handled proactively, disruptions can lead to better products, smarter processes and stronger global positioning.
One of the strongest tools to manage uncertainty is diversification – especially in exports. In today’s rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, relying on a single market has become increasingly risky. The recent tariff changes by the USA are a reminder of this. These sudden revisions created immediate challenges for Indian exporters, especially those heavily dependent on the US market. It clearly shows how overdependence on one destination exposes businesses to risks beyond their control.
By diversifying markets – across Africa, Latin America, ASEAN, the Middle East and other emerging regions – companies can balance risks, stabilise revenue streams and maintain continuity even during global disruptions. Diversified exporters are not only more resilient but also more innovative, as they cater to varied consumer needs and global standards.
At the organisational level, strong fiscal management, anticipating potential risks and preparing mitigation strategies in advance are critical. Companies that plan ahead, build buffers and keep exploring new markets are the ones that thrive despite volatility.
In an uncertain world, resilience is built on choices. The most successful companies will be those that: Embrace disruption instead of fearing it, diversify markets and product lines, innovate continuously, strengthen financial discipline, and stay agile and forward-looking. Disruption may be unavoidable – but with the right strategy, it can become a powerful catalyst for growth.
What is the current status of the sector you are representing?
India’s export performance – especially in the plastics sector – continues to demonstrate strong resilience and growth despite global uncertainties. During FY 2024 – 25, India’s plastics exports touched USD 12.5 billion, marking an impressive 8.2 per cent increase over the previous year. This momentum is reinforced by the country’s steady overall merchandise exports of USD 437.71 billion, reflecting the robustness of our manufacturing and export ecosystem.
What is particularly encouraging is the rise in value-added plastic products, which grew by nine per cent. This indicates a clear shift toward innovation, product sophistication, and higher-margin segments. Even plastic raw materials registered healthy growth at 7.4 per cent, showing that global buyers continue to trust India as a reliable and quality-driven supply source.
Plastics remain a vital pillar of India’s manufacturing landscape, contributing significantly to our export basket. With expanding capacities, stronger compliance with global standards, and increasing competitiveness, the sector is well-positioned to tap into rising global demand.
Looking ahead, India’s plastics exports are expected to reach USD 14 billion in FY 2025 – 26. This projection is not just ambitious – it is achievable. With growing acceptance of Indian products across international markets, continued government support, and the industry’s commitment to quality and sustainability, the plastics sector is set for a strong upward trajectory.
India’s export story is evolving, and plastics are playing a central role in driving that growth.
The PLEXCONCIL is a very old organization, formed way back in 1955. Please tell us the brief history and the journey so far?
PLEXCONCIL celebrates its Platinum Jubilee in 2025, marking 70 years of dedicated service to India’s plastics industry and its global aspirations. Established in 1955 under the aegis of the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, the Plastics Export Promotion Council (PLEXCONCIL) was created with a clear mission: to take India’s plastics industry to global markets and position the country as a trusted sourcing destination.
When the Council was formed, India’s plastics sector was still in its early stages. Over the years, PLEXCONCIL has played a transformative role – guiding the industry through cycles of growth, modernization, globalisation, and now sustainability. From representing India in some of the earliest international trade fairs to facilitating thousands of B2B connections, the Council has consistently served as a bridge between Indian exporters and the world.
A defining strength of PLEXCONCIL has been its constant engagement with stakeholders. Through advocacy, policy support, and capacity-building initiatives, the Council has ensured that Indian manufacturers stay aligned with global quality, regulatory, and market requirements. Its Export Excellence Awards, industry outreach programmes, and collaborations with international trade bodies have all contributed to strengthening India’s reputation as a reliable and competitive sourcing hub.
Technology adoption has been another key part of the journey. With the digital evolution of the past decade, PLEXCONCIL has embraced new platforms to stay connected with its members -through daily circulars, social media, the PLEXCONCIL mobile app, and its monthly magazine PLEXCONNECT. One of the Council’s most notable achievements is the launch of PLEXCONNECT – India’s only exhibition dedicated exclusively to plastics exports. It has transformed India into a global meeting point for buyers, innovators, and partners.
As PLEXCONCIL celebrates its Platinum Jubilee, its legacy stands on the pillars of trust, collaboration, and vision. For 70 years, it has not only promoted Indian enterprise but also shaped the industry’s global trajectory. Going forward, PLEXCONCIL remains committed to driving sustainability, innovation, and global competitiveness as India steps into a new era of opportunity.
What you demand from the government to be a part of its AtmaNirbhar project?
The Government of India has taken several bold and progressive steps that strongly support the vision of AtmaNirbhar Bharat. We truly appreciate how proactive the government has been in driving reforms across the country. Landmark FTAs – such as the India – UK (CETA) and the India – EFTA Agreement – along with ongoing negotiations with the USA, EU, Oman, Bahrain, and New Zealand, are creating new pathways for Indian exporters and enhancing our global market access. Equally transformative are the initiatives in trade digitisation, the introduction of Lab Setu, GST rate rationalisation, and the creation of a deeply export-friendly ecosystem. These reforms have significantly improved India’s competitiveness and boosted the confidence of exporters across sectors.
We sincerely thank the Government of India for approving the ₹25,060-crore Export Promotion Mission, a visionary step that will strengthen India’s export infrastructure and capabilities for decades to come. We also appreciate the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Exporters (CGSE), which provides up to ₹20,000 crore of additional credit with a 100% guarantee. This is a monumental support system, especially for MSMEs, and clearly reflects the government’s commitment to empowering India’s exporting community.
These initiatives—combined with progressive FTAs – are shaping a New India: one that builds, competes, and succeeds on the global stage. Going forward, we believe the government can further accelerate India’s self-reliance by incentivising the domestic manufacturing of raw materials under the PLI scheme. This will expand current capacity, reduce import dependence, and strengthen India’s position as a globally competitive manufacturing hub.
Any plan to undertake international trade fairs B2B exhibitions, seminars, in very near future or any other export promotional activities?
PLEXCONCIL has an extensive calendar of international trade fairs, B2B exhibitions, and export-promotional activities lined up for 2025 – 26. Our focus is to ensure that Indian exporters have maximum global exposure and access to high-potential markets. At the forefront of our initiatives is PLEXCONNECT 2026 – India’s only export-focused plastics exhibition and a flagship event conceptualised and organised entirely by PLEXCONCIL. After two successful editions, PLEXCONNECT has evolved into a powerful global platform where India’s innovation, manufacturing strength, and export capabilities are showcased to the world. What makes it unique is its model: instead of Indian exporters travelling abroad, PLEXCONNECT brings international buyers directly to India.
The first two editions of PLEXCONNECT in 2023 and 2024 were exceptionally well received, establishing the platform as a trusted meeting ground for global buyers and Indian manufacturers. Building on this strong foundation, PLEXCONNECT 2026 is set to be even grander, with over 500 exhibitors from more than 70 countries, making it one of the most significant export-focused plastics events on the global calendar.
The upcoming PLEXCONNECT 2026, to be held alongside PLASTINDIA 2026 from 5–10 February 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, will be the largest edition yet. This strategic combination will unite top international buyers, innovators, and manufacturers under one roof – further strengthening India’s position as a trusted global sourcing hub. The event reflects our commitment to “Make in India for the World” and will open new avenues for collaboration, technology exchange, and export growth.
In addition to PLEXCONNECT, PLEXCONCIL will also participate in several prominent global exhibitions and buyer–seller meets in 2025–26, including Korea Pack 2026, JEC World, Ruplastica, and the India–Australia BSM, ensuring wider international engagement and expanded market access for Indian exporters. We are also preparing well in advance for NPE 2027 and ArabPlast 2027, for which MoUs have already been signed. This forward planning ensures that our members can secure participation early and benefit from enhanced global visibility. The India Pavilion is increasingly gaining traction across major international plastics exhibitions, reflecting the rising confidence in Indian manufacturing.
Through these initiatives, PLEXCONCIL remains committed to expanding global opportunities for Indian exporters and positioning India as a leader in the international plastics value chain.
