Industrialist Anand Mahindra has hailed Morbi, a small town in Gujarat, as India’s “Bahubali” of business for its remarkable dominance in the global ceramic industry. In a recent tweet, the Mahindra Group Chairman shared a video showcasing Morbi’s achievements, highlighting its ability to compete with China’s pricing while matching Italy’s quality.
A Global Ceramic Hub
Morbi, spanning just 50 by 9 kilometers, produces an astounding 90% of India’s ceramics and accounts for 13% of the world’s ceramic production. The town is home to nearly 1,000 family-owned factories, many of which have been operational since the 1930s. These businesses collectively employ around 4 lakh people, contributing significantly to the local and national economy.
Competing with Global Giants
Mahindra praised the entrepreneurial spirit of Morbi’s small-town businesses, referring to them as the “Bahubalis” of India. He emphasized that their agility and resilience serve as an inspiring example of how Indian enterprises can compete on a global scale. “Can Indian businesses compete with China? Maybe we’re not looking in the right places for success stories. I was delighted to see this video on the ‘Morbi’ effect,” Mahindra remarked.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite its success, Morbi’s ceramic industry faces challenges, including declining domestic and international demand. Manufacturers are seeking tax relief on gas consumption, urging a shift from VAT to GST and permission for input tax credit claims. Additionally, anti-dumping duties imposed by countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Taiwan, along with trade sanctions on Iran, have impacted exports.
A Vision for the Future
Mahindra’s recognition of Morbi underscores the potential of small-town entrepreneurs to drive India’s global business ambitions. With the right support and policy measures, Morbi’s ceramic industry could further solidify its position as a world leader.
Morbi’s story is a testament to the power of innovation and determination, proving that even small towns can make a big impact on the global stage. Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring success story.
