This festive season local artisans are going to be worst hit as they face stiff competition from Chinese products, according to ASSOCHAM-Social Development Foundation.
According to a survey conducted by the organisation, demand for Chinese products in the market has gone up by 45 per cent, especially for fancy lights, lampshades, Ganesha and Laxmi idols, and crackers.
Of the consumers surveyed, over 78 per cent said Chinese lights were almost 50 per cent cheaper as compared to Indian made ones and there was more variety as well. It saved them nearly 35 per cent of their Diwali budget.
Nearly 72 per cent traders said that the demand for earthen diyas has been slipping over the past few years as consumers prefer fancy lights made in China.
Chinese crackers are also finding more takers. Nearly 82 per cent of wholesalers said that Chinese crackers are more colourful, produce more sound and are cheaper than their Indian counterparts.
Chinese goods worth Rs 250 crore are circulating in the Indian market and the volume could increase if necessary steps are not taken, according to the organisation.
