Dun & Bradstreet India is pleased to present to you the second publication in the 'D&B Sectoral Round Table Conferences' series titled the 'Indian Chemical Industry'. The publication aims to provide an overview on the current trends and future prospects of the Indian Chemical Industry, which is divided into four sub-segments: inorganic chemicals, organic chemicals, fertilisers and pesticides.

India emerged as one of the fast-growing economies in the world after having recorded an annual average growth rate of 8% during the last four years. The chemical industry is one of the oldest industries in India and it forms the backbone of most industries in the manufacturing sector. The Indian chemical sector accounts for about 18% of manufacturing sector output, 14-15% of total exports, 8-9% of total imports, and over 3% of the GDP.

Over the years, the chemical industry has contributed significantly towards India's economic as well as industrial growth. The chemical industry is the building block for several downstream industries. Recently, the industry has turned its focus on using more energy-efficient and environment friendly methods of production, and has been promoting sustainable development. These measures will change the image of the industry as one that delivers more environment-friendly products. Thus, in the near future, the industry's go green initiative will bring greater economic and environmental benefits.

The Indian chemical industry is set for further growth, since the Indian economy has been liberalised. Further, since the patent regime has come into picture, the industry is making substantial investments in R&D to counter increasing global competition.

The publication 'Indian Chemical Industry' is an endeavor to highlight the current status as well as the issues and challenges that exist in various segments of the chemical industry. I hope you enjoy reading this publication and I look forward to receiving your suggestions.

Dr Manoj Vaish
President & CEO - India
Dun & Bradstreet