Review of exim policy needed, says AISMA president

Ahmedabad, Nov 6 (UNI) All India Starch Manufacturers' Association (AISMA) president Amol Sheth, while expressing apprehensions that huge maize exports by India to neighbouring countries could lead to a shortage of the commodity in the domestic market, has urged the Government to review the exim policy.

Talking to reporters here today, Mr Sheth said exports to Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal and Middle East countries could create a shortage of maize in the domestic market.

Besides, the Far East countries too are likely to import maize from India instead of from China and the USA. While China has halted the exports, the USA maize is costlier because of a growing demand for the crop from the ethanol industry.

Mr Sheth said that under such circumstances, the Government must review the exim policy which, currently, places no restrictions on exports. The government should review the domestic demand before allowing for exports, Mr Sheth said.

For imports, the government should consider lowering the ceiling price. In case the CNF price is below the ceiling price, difference between the CNF price and the ceiling price should be charged as duty, Mr Sheth added.

UNI MP MAZ AW2127