Pharma, agro post robust growth: Survey

Hyderabad, Dec 12 (UNI) The Bi-Annual Industry Monitor Survey conducted by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) - Southern Region for April 2007 - September 2007 today revealed robust growth of pharmaceuticals and agro-industry in Andhra Pradesh.

The pharmaceutical industry registered an impressive performance during the period with production level and production value increasing by 20-25 per cent and 15 per cent respectively.

The industry's sales and exports went up by 15 to 20 per cent.

During October 2007-March 2008, the demand is expected to go up by 12.5 to 17.5 per cent, which would raise the production levels by 25 to 30 per cent.

The sales turnover is expected to increase by 20-25 per cent and the exports by 30 per cent. The value of production was also expected to go up by 20 per cent.

The agro-industry witnessed enhanced production and sales by 20-25 per cent and 20-22 per cent respectively. However, exports and profit margins slipped 25 per cent and five per cent respectively.

During October 2007-March 2008, the industry expects a 10-15 per cent growth in demand, 15 per cent growth in production and sales.

Availability of skilled man power and high capital investment requirement are some of the concerns impacting the performance of the industry.

The performance of IT industry was moderate. While revenues were up by five-10 per cent, employment increased by 10-15 per cent.

The industry expects about 10-15 per cent increase in revenue during October 2007-March 2008 as compared to April to September 2007.

The IT industry expects an increase of 25-30 per cent in the employment level during October 2007 - March 2008.

As there was a severe shortfall of talent, the industry urged the government to take immediate measures to introduce skill development programmes at high schools and colleges.

The manufacturing industry also witnessed a moderate growth.

The level of production and capacity utilisation had gone up by 10-15 per cent and 30-35 per cent respectively. Consequently, sales and exports increased by 15 and five per cent respectively, a press release said.

UNI