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Read an interview with Vishal Sharma, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Godrej Industries’ Chemicals Business
Udyamee, Ahmedabad:
Godrej Industries’ Chemicals Business today announced the launch of Samagam, a first-of-its-kind platform aimed at uniting industry leaders, manufacturers, formulators, channel partners, and sector experts. For this, Vishal Sharma, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Godrej Industries (Chemicals), visited Ahmedabad and spoke about the chemicals industry, the global scenario, and, of course, Godrej’s chemical business.
Q: How does the US tariff issue affect the chemical industry as well as the company? Are we exploring other countries?
Vishal Sharma: The US tariff issue has not affected the Indian chemical industry so far. However, the US is not the only market; the world is open, and there are several other countries where we can explore business opportunities. India itself has a huge market, and the industry holds significant potential in the domestic market. For Godrej’s chemical business, the US market share is only about 3-4%. So, it is not a matter of concern.
Q: Do you see slower investments this year in the industry?
Vishal Sharma: Compared to the past two or three years, investments have slowed down a bit this year. Companies are now more cautious about investments due to various reasons, including geopolitical tensions and tariff issues. The industry is waiting for certainty and closely monitoring the actions of US President Trump.
Q: What are the investment plans for Godrej in the chemical business?
Vishal Sharma: Our annual turnover last year was Rs 2,500 crore, and we aim to increase it to Rs 5,000 crore within the next three years. To achieve this, we plan to invest Rs 600 crore in phases. Of this investment, nearly Rs 500 crore will be allocated to Gujarat. We are also planning to acquire some plants that align with our business strategy.
Q: Are you expanding in Gujarat?
Vishal Sharma: Godrej has a strong and enduring presence in Gujarat. Since 1996, our Valia facility has been a cornerstone of the state’s industrial ecosystem. In 2024, the company further strengthened its footprint with the acquisition of the Ethoxylation Unit II from Shree Vallabh Chemicals in Kheda, which has enhanced our production capabilities.
Q: What is the purpose of Samagam?
Vishal Sharma: Samagam is a new initiative beyond our business offerings. It brings together stakeholders to explore emerging trends and shape the future with sustainable and forward-thinking solutions. The initiative reflects our commitment to enabling the meaningful progress of our partners in an ever-changing industrial landscape.
Q: Will the program be replicated in other locations?
Vishal Sharma: Following the Ahmedabad event, Samagam is set to expand to other key industrial hubs, including Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi, and Kolkata. This strategic expansion aims to ensure broader participation and foster deeper engagement across various sectors.