Rising raw material prices and higher freight and logistic costs due to the West Asia war may put the proposed expansion of a foundry cluster in Bengal at risk, industry participants warned on Friday. ADVERTISEMENTThe industry representatives said that foundry-grade pig iron prices increased from ₹40,000 per tonne in January 2026 to ₹45,000 per tonne as on April 10. Of late, they are focusing on exports rather than supplying to domestic foundry units and increasing prices frequently. Sandip Kejriwal, vice- chairman of Indian Foundry Association, demanded that the Centre put a duty on pig iron ore export. There are about 350 foundry units in Bengal employing over 50,000 people.

Source: The Telegraph April 11, 2026 05:36 UTC