Relax environment norms for export growth, say pharmaceutical firms

Pharmaceutical companies have asked for abolition of stringent environment norms and goods and service tax benefits to boost competitiveness and export.

According to the Pharmaceutical Export Promotion Council, domestic companies exported pharmaceuticals worth $ 17.2 billion in FY 18. Between April-July in FY 19 companies exported $5.9 billion worth medicines and exports grew 13.4 per cent.

Drug makers say relaxation in norms would enable them to reap the benefits of US-China trade war, tap new markets in Asia and Africa and respond effectively to certain product shortages.

Under the current norms, pollution control boards lay down permissible effluent limits while granting approval.