Speakers at a panel discussion on ‘Finite resources: infinite opportunities,’ organised by the Rubber Board, wanted stakeholders to take a collaborative approach and adoption of new technologies to tide over problems being faced by the sector. The discussion was held as part of the India Rubber Meet 2015, which concluded here on Thursday.
Rajiv Budhraja, director general, Automotive Tyre Manufacturers’ Association (ATMA), urged stakeholders to catch up with developments in technology so that every segment associated with the sector could compete internationally.
Pointing fingers at each other over issues relating to quality and prices would not serve the goal of making progress in the sector, he said.
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K.T. Thomas, former president, All India Rubber Industries Association, said the present phase of low prices for natural rubber was the opportune time for replanting rubber. He said that prices would go up after some time, as the past trend showed cyclic changes. He called for focus on quality.
Recycling industry
Rajendra V. Gandhi, an entrepreneur, highlighted the need for support to recycling industry. He urged people to refrain from burning of rubber as it was harmful to environment. All stakeholders should work together for betterment of the industry, said Siby J. Monipally, general secretary, Indian Rubber Growers Association.
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Earlier, speaking at another session, Salmiah Ahmad, director general, Malaysian Rubber Board, said collaboration and cooperation of natural rubber producing countries at an international level was essential to address price volatility.
Speakers at a meet organised by Rubber Board seek a collaborative approach to tide over issues