Delhi CM urges plastics industry to prioritise innovation, recycling and responsible growth 

Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta has called on India’s plastics industry to accelerate innovation, strengthen recycling systems and place sustainability at the centre of future growth, while inaugurating PlastIndia 2026, India’s largest plastics exhibition.

Addressing industry leaders, Gupta urged manufacturers to develop eco-friendly products and work towards the goal of recycling 100% of plastic waste. She said responsible growth must underpin the sector’s expansion, particularly as plastic waste continues to pose a significant challenge for the national capital.

Highlighting Delhi’s daily generation of thousands of tonnes of plastic waste, the chief minister said industry collaboration would be critical in helping the city transition towards a cleaner and greener future. She encouraged stakeholders to adopt circular economy practices and invest in innovative material solutions that reduce environmental impact.

Gupta also commended the plastics industry for its sustainability initiatives, particularly the organisation of PlastIndia 2026 as a zero-waste exhibition. She said the approach reflected the sector’s commitment to environmental responsibility while showcasing advances in technology and best practices.

Speaking on the industry’s economic potential, she noted that India’s plastics sector was valued at USD 44 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 47 billion in 2026, with projections of USD 64 billion by 2030. She emphasised that growth must be aligned with sustainability goals to ensure long-term environmental and economic benefits.

The chief minister welcomed the recent free trade agreement with the European Union and the tariff deal with the United States, stating that these developments would open new global markets for Indian manufacturers, particularly MSMEs, and boost exports. Calling for deeper collaboration, Gupta said Delhi could emerge as a hub for plastic processing and recycling, driven by innovation and advanced technologies.

“Responsible growth should be our collective vision. With innovation, recycling and industry participation, Delhi can move towards a greener future while unlocking economic opportunities,” she said.

PlastIndia 2026, a six-day exhibition organised by the Plastindia Foundation, is being held at Bharat Mandapam. The event is India’s first 100% zero-waste plastics exhibition and is expected to host more than 2,000 exhibitors, attracting over 600,000 visitors from India and overseas.

Ravish Kamath, president of the Plastindia Foundation, said the exhibition would host several initiatives aimed at strengthening policy dialogue, global trade and sustainability. These include a CEO Conclave bringing together industry leaders and policymakers, and a Reverse Buyer Seller Meet (RBSM) designed to facilitate structured one-to-one meetings between Indian exhibitors and international buyers.

“India’s plastics industry is witnessing strong and sustained growth. The market, currently valued at USD 26.5 billion in 2025, is projected to reach USD 44.5 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 11%. Plastics exports are expected to double from USD 10 billion in 2025 to USD 20 billion by 2027,” Kamath said.

He added that growth is being driven by infrastructure development and rising demand across packaging, automotive, construction, electronics and healthcare sectors.

Alok Tibrewala, chairman of the national executive committee for PlastIndia 2026, highlighted the exhibition’s sustainability focus.

“What truly sets PlastIndia 2026 apart is its determined commitment to be a zero-waste exhibition — a first for India’s plastics industry. Inspired by the Swachh Bharat Mission, this edition will implement circular economy practices, large-scale recycling initiatives and sustainability-driven operations across the event,” Tibrewala said.

He also outlined several first-of-its-kind initiatives, including a 20,000 sq ft open-air museum showcasing the responsible role of plastics through large sculptures and interactive installations. The event will also feature a Startup Search Initiative, developed in collaboration with IIM Calcutta Innovation Park, with ten shortlisted start-ups selected from 150 applications receiving cash awards of INR 200,000 and complimentary exhibition booths.

“With the support of ministers and policymakers, PlastIndia 2026 will not only be one of the largest exhibitions hosted at Bharat Mandapam, but also one of the most forward-thinking,” Tibrewala said.

PlastIndia 2026 positions itself as a benchmark for sustainable exhibition management, aligning with national priorities under the Swachh Bharat Mission and reinforcing the Indian plastics industry’s commitment to a cleaner, greener and globally competitive future.