'India third largest producer of natural rubber'

Chennai, Jan 17: India has become the third largest producer of natural rubber in the world, Union Minister of State for Statistics and Programme Implementation G K Vasan said here today.

Inaugurating the 4th International Exhibition and Conference, Asia's largest exposition on the rubber industry 'India Rubber Expo 2007' at the Chennai Trade Centre here, he said, "India is one of the key players in the global rubber business, where the domestic rubber industry is growing at a rapid pace".

Referring to the various global automobile companies like General Motors, Ford and Hyundai, who had set up their manufacturing facilities in the state, Mr Vasan said rubber companies should take cue from them and set up their industries.

He also expressed confidence that in future the rubber industry would emerge strong following the efforts taken by the All India Rubber Industry Association (AIRIA).

These kind of rubber expo would create business opportunities for India, he added.

On the occasion, the K M Philip Award, carrying a citation, a cash prize of Rs two lakh and a gold medal, was presented to Anil Sampat for his outstanding contribution for the growth of rubber industry in India.

Over 250 stalls had been put up in 'India Rubber Expo 2007'. Some of the countries participating, included US, Germany, China, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

UNI