Ahmedabad may get 'testing lab for pharma and medical sector

The city is likely to get a testing laboratory for the pharma machinery and medical devices sector if the Gujarat government makes a proper representation to the Centre in this regard, a senior official said today.
"If the Gujarat government makes a proper representation, then Ahmedabad will probably get a testing lab for the pharma and medical device sector," Union Commerce and Industries Ministry's Joint Secretary Ravi Capoor said while answering queries by stakeholders of the sector.
Capoor assured that small manufacturers would benefit if such a lab is established.
Speaking at a meeting of the newly-formed panel of the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC), Capoor promised stakeholders of the sector that action would be taken against low-quality products being dumped into the country.

"If any of you are aware of dumping of low-quality products from China, file an application through the EEPC with substantial evidence to the ministry," Capoor said.
Union Commerce and Industries Ministry's Joint Secretary Sudhanshu Pandey emphasised on a global policy for the development of the sector.

"This sector has been growing in terms of rupees. However, growth is negligible in terms of dollars. If countries like Egypt and Vietnam can encourage local manufacturers, then why can't India do so? Considering this aspect, the ministry has thought about a global policy involving the government, banks and credit agencies," Pandey said.

Briefing reporters about the meeting on pharmaceutical machinery, medical and surgical equipment, EEPC Executive Director Bhaskar Sarkar said that the ministry has responded positively to stakeholders' problems.
"We face a peculiar problem when it comes to trade with neighbouring countries. While imported pharmaceutical machinery is being dumped into India by China, we are confronted with an embargo exporting our machinery to Pakistan. We have taken up these issues with the government and the Commerce Ministry has responded with positive assurances", Sarkar said.