The government has recently imposed restrictions on the import of parts for pocket lighters in order to promote domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports from China. This move is aimed at supporting local production and reducing the influx of substandard goods into the market.
Importing pocket lighters with gas fuel, whether refillable or non-refillable, is now restricted, with the import of lighters priced below Rs 20 already prohibited. Last year, quality standard norms were introduced for flame-producing lighters to ensure that only products meeting these standards are allowed in the market.
The import of lighter parts from China, which stood at USD 3.8 million during April-July this fiscal year, is a significant concern. Other sources of lighter imports include Spain, Turkey, and the UAE. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has even called for a ban on single-use plastic cigarette lighters to support the local matchbox industry in the state.
India has been actively working to reduce imports from China, its second-largest trading partner. The country’s trade deficit with China has been on the rise, reaching USD 85 billion in 2023-24, highlighting the need for measures to boost local manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports.
