The Indian Newspaper Society (INS) Monday appealed to the government to reconsider the imposition of five per cent customs duty on newsprint. The measure will come as much-needed relief to the print media industry, said the organisation, which counts newspapers, periodicals and magazines across the country as its members.
INS said the factors affecting the price and availability of newsprint — geopolitical uncertainties, logistics, rupee depreciation and customs duty — have created a formidable burden for publishers in the country.
The escalations in West Asian conflicts, as well as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, have significantly affected the global supply chain, including for newsprint, the organisation said in a statement Monday.
“Coupled with the Red Sea issue, where cargo ships are being continuously targeted, has further exacerbated the situation, leading to disruptions in the transportation of essential commodities, including newsprint. Resultantly, the newsprint suppliers are cancelling the earlier confirmed orders of the publishers,” the statement says.
The INS said many newsprint mills in India and abroad have either suspended or ceased production, sparking supply concerns. The fluctuating currency exchange rates contribute to the rising costs of importing newsprint, straining the financial viability of newspapers and publications, it said.
The statement says that the survival of print media is crucial for the largest democracy in the world, as newspapers not only serve as a vital medium for disseminating knowledge and information at low and affordable costs to the people but also contribute to the government’s efforts to inform citizens about policies and social welfare programmes.
“In an era of widespread online misinformation, print media retains a commendable level of trust and credibility, distinguishing itself through reliable editorials, comprehensive reporting, and widespread readership,” it reads.
The organisation urgently appealed to the Government to reconsider the five per cent customs duty on Newsprint. “This will provide much-needed relief to the print media industry, allowing publishers to manage their operational costs more effectively and ensure the continued dissemination of credible news and information to the public,” said the statement signed by INS president Rakesh Sharma.