Ahmedabad, Oct 14 — Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi on Wednesday urged industries to adopt international quality standards and focus on zero-defect manufacturing, saying that product finishing, reliability and customer satisfaction are essential for Indian goods to compete in global markets.
Addressing the ‘Manak Mahotsav’, organised by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to mark World Standards Day 2026, Sanghavi said that entering international markets required more than simply exporting products, with industries needing to meet global quality benchmarks.
“Quality is reflected not just in a product’s price or brand, but also in its finishing, reliability and customer satisfaction,” he said, urging industrialists to identify shortcomings in their products and manufacturing processes and make the necessary improvements.
Sanghavi said quality was important across sectors, from everyday consumer goods to industrial products.
"Items such as food products, toys and garments needed to meet customer expectations in terms of quality and finishing to build trust," he said.
He added that local industries could establish a stronger market identity through better-quality products, attractive packaging and value addition.
Improvements in quality and productivity could help businesses reach wider markets, while even small changes in production processes could deliver significant results without requiring substantial investment.
Emphasising the importance of quality standards for Gujarat’s startups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs), Sanghavi said: "Adherence to international benchmarks would help them connect with global markets."
He expressed confidence that coordinated efforts by the state government, industry bodies such as the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), and businesses would strengthen Gujarat’s competitiveness.
"Teamwork, innovation and a sustained focus on quality would help industries achieve new milestones and improve the global standing of products manufactured in Gujarat," he said.
GCCI chairman Rajesh Gandhi also stressed the importance of quality standards in the development of the industrial and services sectors, while appreciating the work of BIS.
"The large number of certifications obtained by industries in Gujarat reflected growing awareness of quality standards," he said.
Drawing on his experience in the ice cream industry, Gandhi said manufacturers should maintain the same quality for domestic and export markets rather than follow different standards for the two.
"Ensuring that every customer receives products of the same high quality, backed by stringent and internationally recognised standards, would improve the global acceptance of Indian goods and support the ‘Make in India’ initiative," he said.
Gandhi urged BIS to develop standards aligned with international benchmarks and continue encouraging industries to improve product quality.
At the beginning of the programme, BIS Gujarat branch head Ajay Kumar Lal welcomed the officials and attendees. World Standards Day is observed annually on October 14.
This year’s observance highlighted United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7, which focuses on affordable and clean energy, with an emphasis on efficient energy use, the promotion of clean energy and the role of quality standards in achieving these objectives.
BIS works to promote standardisation and a culture of quality across India. Its World Standards Day programmes seek to raise awareness among citizens and industries about the importance of quality, safety and reliability in products and services.