Cancer-Chemical Imports Threaten Indian Public Health
A new report reveals that India’s public health faces serious risks from substandard PVC resin imports containing cancer-causing chemicals at levels up to five times global safety limits.
Key Findings
- Chinese PVC resin contains high levels of Residual Vinyl Chloride Monomer (RVCM)
- RVCM classified as Category 1A carcinogen by international agencies
- Concentrations reach 5-10 ppm versus global standards of 0.5-3 ppm
- PVC used in critical sectors: water supply, healthcare, construction
Critical Safety Gaps
The Centre for Domestic Economy Policy Research (C-DEP.in) study highlights India’s lack of binding national limits for RVCM, unlike the US, EU and Thailand which enforce strict regulations. With PVC forming nearly 30% of India’s economy, the contamination risk spans multiple essential sectors.
Quality Control Order Delays
The proposed Quality Control Order (QCO) for PVC resin was first issued in August 2024 but has been postponed three times, now scheduled for December 2025. This delay continues to expose consumers to hazardous materials.
“The Modi government has been championing the Zero Defect, Zero Effect policy by adopting the Quality Control Order. Such a policy step is strengthening consumer safety and industrial standards while promoting exports from India that are dependable and of high quality,” said Jaijit Bhattacharya, President of C-DEP.in.
Industry Perspectives
Anil Sharma from Swadeshi Jagran Manch emphasized that QCOs must cover the entire value chain, not just finished goods. “To truly protect public safety and establish fair competition for domestic producers, QCOs must encompass raw materials,” he stated.
Supply Chain Readiness
C-DEP analysis confirms that 39 overseas players already hold BIS certification, creating supply capacity 3.4 times higher than domestic demand. This means QCO enforcement would enhance quality without disrupting manufacturing.
