Harsh Sanghavi Urges Focus on Quality to Conquer Global Markets
On World Standards Day 2026, Gujarat Dy CM Harsh Sanghavi urged industrialists to adopt international quality standards to conquer global markets.
Marking World Standards Day 2026, Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi has issued a clarion call to the state's industrial sector, urging manufacturers to prioritize product excellence and meticulous finishing to compete on the world stage.
Speaking at an event in Ahmedabad, Sanghavi emphasized that simply exporting goods is insufficient for long-term success in the international arena. Instead, he stressed that Indian industries must embrace international quality standards and strive for a "zero-defect" manufacturing philosophy to truly penetrate global markets.
Quality Beyond the Price Tag
The Deputy Chief Minister highlighted that true quality is not merely reflected in a product's price or the strength of its brand. Rather, it is found in the finer details: the finishing, the reliability, and the ultimate customer satisfaction.
He noted that quality is a universal requirement spanning all sectors, from essential daily commodities to complex industrial components. Specifically, he pointed out that in sectors such as:
- Food products
- Toys
- Garments
High standards of quality and aesthetic finishing are critical to building and maintaining consumer trust. Sanghavi suggested that local industries could carve out a distinct market identity by combining superior quality with attractive packaging and value-added features.
Empowering Startups and SMEs
A key takeaway from the Deputy CM's address was the role of standardization in scaling businesses. He argued that adopting global benchmarks is the most effective way to connect Gujarat’s startups and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to the wider world.
Crucially, he mentioned that significant improvements in global competitiveness do not always require massive capital investments; often, small, strategic refinements in production processes can yield substantial results in productivity and market reach.
One Standard for All Customers
Adding to the discussion, Rajesh Gandhi, Chairman of the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), underscored the vital role of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). He noted a growing awareness among Gujarat's industries, evidenced by the increasing number of quality certifications being obtained.
Drawing from his professional background in the ice cream industry, Gandhi made a compelling argument against "dual standards." He insisted that manufacturers should not maintain different quality levels for domestic versus export markets. Instead, he advocated for a single, high-quality standard that ensures every customer, regardless of location, receives the same excellence. This approach, he argued, would provide a massive boost to the 'Make in India' vision.
Sustainability and Energy Standards
While the event celebrated industrial excellence, this year's World Standards Day also carried a significant environmental message. The celebrations placed a special emphasis on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7), which focuses on Affordable and Clean Energy.
The program highlighted the necessity of integrating quality standards with energy efficiency and the promotion of clean energy sources, ensuring that the industrial growth of Gujarat remains both competitive and sustainable for the future.