The metal packaging industry in India which is worth 10,000 Crores is facing a shortage of tinplate and tin-free steel. The Government of India imposed a BIS standard on the import of tinplate and tin-free steel on 17th July 2020, and recently extended it till 17th July 2021.
“In the wake of acute shortage of tinplate/ tin-free steel material which is largely used to manufacture cans and containers to pack processed food and fruits, the processed food packaging industry is feeling a pinch,” said Metal Container Manufacturers Association of India in a press release.
Though some exporters from foreign countries have applied for BIS registration, the approval process has been halted due to the Covid-19 second wave in the country. This has led to a severe shortage of tinplate and tin-free steel, which are the much-needed materials for metal packaging.