India's appetite for asbestos undaunted by global bans

Expert says 'commercial interests' drive the trade of deadly fibers in South Asian nation

20250124 India construction

A worker at a construction site of a residential building in Mumbai: India has no laws prohibiting the use of asbestos in construction. © Reuters

JYOTI THAKUR

NEW DELHI -- India's insatiable appetite for asbestos has been undaunted by a global push to ban the deadly fiber and warnings from experts over the health risks to millions in the world's top consumer.

Asbestos, a group of heat-resistant fibrous silicate minerals known for their low cost and versatility, was extensively used across various industries -- such as chemical refining, construction, manufacturing and power generation -- from the late 1800s to early 2000s.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored ContentThis content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.