The timber industry in Kutch, Asia’s largest timber hubs, is facing severe challenges due to rising global uncertainties, prompting the Gandhidham Chamber of Commerce and Industry to submit a representation to sent Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Hon’ble Union Finance Minister, seeking urgent relief measures. The Chamber has requested a six-month waiver on customs duty under Chapter 44, citing increasing import costs driven by geopolitical tensions, higher freight and insurance rates, and the depreciation of the Indian Rupee against the US Dollar.
Kutch imports over 6 million cubic meters of timber annually and supports a vast economic ecosystem, including trade, logistics, transport, and employment. Chamber President Teja Kangad stated that the timber sector is a cornerstone of the regional economy and warned that continued cost pressures without timely intervention could severely impact its stability. Honorary Secretary Mahesh Tirthani added that global tensions and currency fluctuations have created a dual burden on traders, making immediate duty relief essential to sustain the supply chain.
Echoing these concerns, Timber Association President Navnit Gajjar highlighted that thousands of families depends on this sector and are currently grappling with rising costs and weakening demand. Copies of the representation have also been submitted to Shri Vinodbhai Chavda, Hon’ble MP – Kutch, Smt. Malatiben Maheshwari, Hon’ble MLA-Gandhidham and relevant government authorities.
The Gandhidham Chamber has expressed hope that the government will take a timely and sympathetic view, noting that such relief will help stabilize the industry, protect livelihoods, and ensure the continued contribution of Kutch’s timber sector to the national economy. as conveyed by Honorary Secretary Mahesh Tirthani through an official press note.
