Inferior foreign goods splits ceramics market

by Lalin Fernandopulle

The ceramic industry has been badly hit due to cheap and inferior Chinese products flooding the market and the staggering cost of production, said Chairman, Dankotuwa Porcelain Ltd., Sunil G. Wijesinghe.

The government has not taken steps to restrict the flow of Chinese products into the country. Inferior products from other countries are also adversely affecting the industry, he cautioned.

The inflation which is the highest in the region has an adverse impact on the cost of labour. Wages are linked to the cost of living index which has reached the peak, of all times.The inflation rose to 24.1 in October.

The ceramic market which was stabilizing after a major setback will take a longer time to recover if the government promote cheap products from China, which confuse customers who look for quality products.

"Though the government says it is promoting local industries it has not given adequate incentives through the budget. The small industries are severely affected due to lack of support and the flow of foreign products to the country.

"Dankotuwa Porcelain launched giftware for the Italian and local markets. Italian designs are in great demand and we hope to cater to the market with niche products. "Various designs and sizes of vases, jewellery boxes, cake trays and ladles are some of the giftware products.

"The company has manufactured special mugs for the festive season", Wijesinghe said.

Dankotuwa Porcelain with the highest market share competes with Fernwood and Noritake.

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