Extension Of BIS Certification Deadline For PVC Imports

India has extended the implementation deadline for Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) quality controls on polyvinyl chloride (PVC) imports to June 24, 2025, from the previous date of December 24, 2024. This marks the second extension, as the original implementation date was set for August 26, 2024. The Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCP) made this decision due to delays in obtaining BIS certification among global PVC producers. Currently, only 14 PVC homopolymer production units outside India are listed as BIS certified.

Impact on PVC Prices and Importers

The delay in BIS certification has led to a cautious approach among Indian PVC importers, who were reluctant to acquire additional cargoes due to potential re-export requirements if producers were not certified by the initial deadline. However, with the new extension until June 2025, importers can continue purchasing PVC in anticipation of peak demand during the first half of 2025. As of late December 2024, suspension PVC (s-PVC) import prices into India were assessed at $735-785 per ton, while paste PVC (e-PVC) prices ranged from $950-980 per ton

Surge in Paste PVC Consumption

In a positive development for the industry, India’s paste PVC consumption surged by 19% during the first half of the current financial year (April-September 2024), driven by increased demand for manufacturing and processing applications. This growth reflects India’s overall economic expansion and rising consumer demand. The apparent consumption reached approximately 92,000 tonnes, compared to 77,000 tonnes during the same period last year.

Anti-Dumping Investigations

India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into imports of polyvinyl chloride paste resin (e-PVC) from the EU and Japan. This investigation aims to determine whether these imports are causing injury to domestic producers. The probe will cover e-PVC imports between April 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024. Additionally, provisional anti-dumping duties have already been imposed on e-PVC imports from several countries including China and South Korea.

Future Outlook for PVC Market

The Indian PVC market is expected to see significant growth driven by ongoing infrastructure projects and government initiatives aimed at improving water supply systems through programs like Jal Jeevan Mission. By 2034, the India PVC-O market is projected to reach USD 2.5 billion, supported by increasing investments in agriculture and sanitation projects. Furthermore, innovations in manufacturing technologies are anticipated to enhance production efficiency and product quality.