The Indian container glass industry is anticipating a surge in domestic demand, following a growing awareness of health and hygiene among consumers.

Manufacturers are ramping up their capacities and infusing new technologies, having lined up a cumulative investment of over Rs 7000 crore for the next two to three years.

The domestic industry is currently estimated to be worth approximately Rs 18,000 crore and currently produces 7000 tonnes/day of container glass.

“We expect a 10 – 12% growth in demand for various categories of glass products in the next two to three years, which is why the industry is investing significantly in capacity addition and, more importantly, technology infusion,” said Mukul Somany, Vice Chairman of Hindusthan National Glass & Industries (HNG) and President of the All-India Glass Manufacturers’ Federation.

HNG is well-established in the Indian industry, producing more than 15 million containers a day. The company is proposing a Rs 1,500-crore expansion for the next 12 - 18 months to add a capacity of 1,000 tonnes/day through a new plant at Naidupetta and expansion of its Nasik facility.

“A significant portion of this investment will be in technology injection, which is currently an industry focus,” Mr Somany said.