How do industry leaders look at print in SAARC countries?

Printer
R Suresh, S T Reddiar & Sons

"We entered the export market about four decades ago. Our main target was USA, Europe and the Gulf. Due to the global recession, these nations sought products at an economic price without sacrificing quality. This is true of the SAARC nations too. They seek quality, too. The use of correct material, and technology with 100% quality hold the key. Print firms have to be dedicated and determined to work and achieve maximum results. Indians need to adapt a strict financial policy to curtail unnecessary overhead expenses and modernise our units with technology and equipment."

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Association
Kamal Chopra, North India Printers Association

"Many SAARC nations are following the trends set by India in the field of packaging and printing. Of late, the printing and packaging industry of almost all the SAARC  nations is in a transition phase. With the increasing demand in packaging printing, the printers of SAARC countries are looking for faster machines. Today, literacy is driving the print media. These countries see India as a big brother – and the Indian printing and post-press machinery manufacturer have a fair chance if the trade is done honestly and in a more professional way. "

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Manufacturer
Balachandra Nikumb, Kodak India

"SAARC nations are as of now lagging behind in terms of technology. They are trying to catch up but still have a wide gap to cover. In Nepal, pre-press conversion towards digital is excellent. China is a prominent player in the market. China is taking care of small markets like Nepal and Bangladesh. The players in the SAARC nations are ready to discuss the latest technology. However, they take a bit of time in making decisions - which might be a result of the political situation in those countries. The Indian market has had a positive momentum on these countries – where labour is very cheap."

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Printer
Gourav Goel, Gopsons Papers

"SAARC nations, especially Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have huge potential. We perceive them as a good business prospect. Those nations are in a developing stage. In terms of print, a rapid rate of growth is observed. As a result, they serve as a market for India. They are similar to how India was ten years ago. The impressive thing is, how fast they are adapting new technology. They are open to new machines. India is mature but competitive. If margins be considered, SAARC nations can be a good target. One concern is language. However if printers can adapt, they can make inroads in these markets."

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