Cycle industry losing out to Chinese imports.

LUDHIANA: The cycle industry in the city is losing its edge to Chinese imports, which have soared to more than Rs 1,800 crore. This has led to closure of many cycle parts manufacturing units. Charanjeet Vishivkarma, president of United Cycle and Parts Manufacturers Association (UCPMA) said the cycle industry is facing a crisis and the worst affected is the micro and small scale industry. He also stressed the need for modernization of manufacturing units.

"The industry has to be modernized so that we do not have to look towards China for components of high end bikes. This requires considerable support from the government as cost of manufacturing is higher in India as compared to China. Measures like anti dumping duty should be implemented and stern action should be taken to check illegal imports from China," he said.

Surjeet Singh, a cycle manufacturer from Dugri, said there is a need to enhance import duty on cycle parts from 20% to 30% and on bicycles to 35% and 45% respectively. "Many imports from China are coming via countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and others exploiting the South Asian Free Agreement. This makes Indian manufacturing costlier as compared to Chinese products, killing the industry. The government should take steps to check illegal import," he said.

Tushar Chawla, an industrialist from the city, said cheap Chinese imports are a major problem and the government should employ a multi-pronged policy to save the cycle industry. "There should be stringent checks on imports from China under invoicing by importers. Research and development is also required for the upgrade of manufacturing units. We need to have carbon frames being manufactured in the city apart from gear assemblies that we are importing from outside to take on competition from countries like China," he said.

Source : timesofindia.indiatimes.com