Gujarat’s Vapi, renowned for its chemical and pharmaceutical prowess, is bracing for the Union Budget with high stakes. Over 10,000 enterprises here generate substantial forex through exports, but Trump tariffs have introduced volatility, prompting urgent calls for government support.
This industrial epicenter, encompassing paper and engineering too, faces export slumps amid worldwide trade frictions. Business owners hope for relief packages that prioritize MSMEs, fostering resilience in line with Atmanirbhar Bharat objectives.
Vapi Industrial Association head Satish Patel underscored the need for tariff countermeasures. ‘An industry-centric budget will strengthen MSMEs towards 2047 development targets,’ he remarked, highlighting the sector’s vulnerability.
Innovation took a hit when 200% R&D rebates vanished two years ago, laments Prakash Bhadra. ‘Reinstating them, plus AI incentives, will drive new products and offset China and tariff pressures,’ he advocated, pushing subsidies for affected MSMEs.
As India’s pharma frontrunner, Vapi seeks a dedicated ministry to amplify export deals. Kamal Vashi pointed to complex GST refunds and pleaded for simplified trade norms via one-window systems. ‘This will draw new pharma ventures and expand markets,’ he said.
The budget’s export-import reforms could be game-changers, promoting transparency and ease. For Vapi, it’s about turning global adversities into strategic advantages, securing a robust future in competitive landscapes.