Primary copper producers urge Govt to retain duty on imports
The demand comes against the backdrop of rising copper imports and concerns over underutilised domestic capacity.
The Indian Primary Copper Producers Association (IPCPA) has urged the government to maintain current import duties on refined copper and various copper products in the upcoming Union Budget 2027-28. The association, comprising Hindustan Copper, Hindalco Industries, Kutch Copper, and Vedanta, warned that lowering duties could lead to increased imports and jeopardise domestic investments.
India's copper industry has made significant investments, totaling over ₹30,000 crore since 1996, with plans for additional capacity of around ₹35,000 crore by 2030. However, rising imports, up 77% from 2.80 lakh tonnes in 2020 to 4.95 lakh tonnes in 2025, have put pressure on domestic producers. The IPCPA suggested retaining the 5-7.5% Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on copper products and increasing the duty on solar PV ribbons and bus bars from 5% to 10% to bolster domestic manufacturers and reduce reliance on imports, especially from China.
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