AP Chambers flags MSME, engineering sector issues

A delegation from the Andhra Pradesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry Federation (AP Chambers), led by its president Potluri Bhaskara Rao, met MSME Minister Kondapalli Srinivas at the State Secretariat on Thursday and discussed issues concerning micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and the engineering sector.

The delegation, comprising AP Chambers office-bearers and representatives of the engineering industry, urged the government to introduce reforms to ease compliance and improve business conditions.

“We requested reforms in fire safety regulations, including extending the validity of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to three to five years,” Mr. Bhaskara Rao said. “We also emphasised the need for practical implementation of labour codes and a settlement scheme to resolve long-pending VAT disputes.”

The delegation called for the rationalisation of property taxes and sought priority for MSMEs in government procurement. “Delayed payments continue to strain MSMEs. Strict enforcement of payment timelines is essential,” he said.

Industry representatives highlighted delays in solar net metering approvals. “A stable, industry-friendly policy will encourage MSMEs to adopt renewable energy,” an AP Chambers member said.

The delegation also sought mandatory procurement from local MSMEs to support domestic manufacturing and smaller suppliers.

Mr. Srinivas assured the delegation that the concerns would be examined. “The government is committed to strengthening the MSME ecosystem and improving ease of doing business,” he said.