Planning to expand our operations beyond India: Rajive Shah, MD, Sauradip Chemical Industries

Last updated : September 30, 2025 7:07 pm



In its 50th year, the company exports to over 40 countries and operates a sustainability-driven supply chain with zero discharge and zero waste


Key milestones achieved by Sauradip Chemical Industries in 2024?

As of 2024, Sauradip Chemical Industries has made considerable advancements in its dedication to sustainability, innovation, and growth. The company is targeting Rs 1,000 crore in revenue over the next five years, fueled by effective strategies in sustainability and product innovation. 

The company has adopted sustainability and green initiatives such as zero discharge manufacturing and development of eco-friendly products. Sauradip allocates 6-7 per cent of its revenue to research and development, fostering the creation of sustainable and innovative products while maintaining a competitive edge. Besides enhanced market presence, Sauradip earned recognition in 2024 for its outstanding contributions to sustainability, green chemistry, and innovation, affirming its leadership in environmental responsibility.

How has been the overall performance of Sauradip in 2024 and what is the expectation from 2025 

In 2024, Sauradip Chemical Industries delivered impressive results, driven by its focus on sustainability, innovation, and expanding market reach. The company saw solid growth and set an ambitious goal to achieve Rs. 1,000 crore in revenue over the next five years. This progress is supported by a broader product range and entry into new markets. Sauradip concentrated on expanding its range of eco-friendly products, notably biodegradable surfactants like Alkyl Polyglucoside (APGs), which have gained popularity in industries such as cosmetics, personal care, and textiles.

The company has committed to a zero discharge manufacturing process, emphasizing environmental responsibility. Sauradip strengthened its position as a leading supplier of green chemical solutions, both in India and internationally.

In 2025, we will continue growing our portfolio of sustainable surfactants and bio-based chemicals to meet the rising demand for eco-friendly solutions. The company will prioritize green technologies, further solidifying its commitment to sustainability. We will focus on expanding into international markets, particularly in Europe and North America, where demand for sustainable products is strong. Strengthening partnerships with like-minded companies and industries focused on sustainability will open up new avenues for growth.

Is Sauradip Chemical collaborating with industry bodies or academic institutions on sustainability initiatives? 

Sauradip Chemical Industries actively partners with both industry organizations and academic institutions to advance sustainability efforts. Notably, the company has supported infrastructure upgrades at the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT) in Mumbai and launched a Visiting Fellowship Lecture series to strengthen connections between academia and industry. Chairman Dr. Kishore Shah emphasizes the importance of collaboration and the creation of chemical clusters to drive innovation and sustainable development. 

Do you see bio-based chemicals replacing conventional ones in the near future?

Bio-based chemicals present a promising alternative to traditional petrochemical-derived substances, driven by the need for more sustainable solutions, efforts to cut carbon emissions, and growing consumer interest in environmentally friendly products. Although the transition is gaining traction, it still faces several hurdles.

Key drivers behind the shift to bio-based chemicals include environmental advantages such as lower carbon footprint and reduced environmental impact. Unlike fossil fuels, bio-based chemicals are made from renewable biomass, supporting long-term sustainability. Consumers and governments are pushing for greener, safer alternatives. Breakthroughs in biotechnology and green chemistry are enhancing the efficiency and affordability of bio-based solutions. 

Barriers to wider adoption include higher production costs. Competing with low-cost petrochemicals remains a challenge. Availability, scalability, and responsible land use for biomass must be carefully managed. Ensuring that bio-based chemicals match or exceed the performance of conventional options is critical.

In terms of strategies for moving forward, continued innovation is key to improving efficiency and reducing costs. Public - private partnerships can accelerate development and market entry. As consumer awareness grows, demand will help drive scale and investment.

How does Sauradip manage hazardous waste disposal in an environmentally responsible way?

Sauradip Chemical Industries demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental care, especially in handling hazardous waste. Their production methods are designed for zero liquid discharge and effluent-free operations, effectively eliminating the risk of environmental pollution. They also provide products such as dust control agents, which assist other industries in minimizing waste and cutting down emissions.

Emphasizing sustainability, Sauradip allocates 6–7 per cent of its revenue toward research focused on developing non-toxic and eco-friendly solutions. These innovations not only support environmental goals but also help industries manage costs. In essence, Sauradip integrates clean manufacturing, green product offerings, and continuous innovation to drive responsible waste management and environmental sustainability.

What initiatives has Sauradip taken to reduce waste and improve recycling?

Sauradip is dedicated to minimizing environmental impact by implementing a range of important sustainability measures, including achieving zero discharge and effluent-free production processes; and encouraging eco-friendly practices via social media campaigns.

These efforts underscore the company's strong commitment to environmental responsibility, focusing on waste reduction, increased recycling, and the broader adoption of sustainable practices within the chemical sector.

What steps are being taken to reduce the carbon footprint of your manufacturing process?

Sauradip is focused on lowering the carbon impact of its manufacturing activities through a series of targeted initiatives, including adoption of environmentally friendly technologies; designing products and processes to minimize carbon emissions; and promoting Eco-conscious events like the "Green Living Fair," Sauradip fosters awareness and engagement in sustainability among stakeholders.

These actions reflect the company's strong commitment to embedding sustainable practices into its core operations, with the goal of reducing carbon emissions and championing environmental stewardship.

How do you ensure that your raw materials are sustainably sourced?

To ensure that raw materials are sourced responsibly and sustainably, Sauradip Chemical Industries generally adopt a range of essential strategies including supplier evaluations and sustainability certifications often validated through certifications like Fair Trade, FSC, or ISO 14001; maintaining transparency and traceability to track the origin of raw materials and ensure clarity throughout the supply chain.

Other measures include collaborating with eco-friendly suppliers, focusing on renewable Inputs, advancing Green Chemistry, following ethical and environmental guidelines, and commitment to ongoing Improvement. 

What role does R&D play in making your products more ecofriendly?

R&D plays a crucial role in driving Sauradip’s efforts to make their products more eco-friendly. By encouraging innovation and promoting sustainability, R&D is central to enhancing both the company’s product lines and manufacturing processes. Our projects focus on creation of non-toxic, eco-friendly products; non-toxic chemicals, eco-friendly alternatives including products like Alkyl Polyglucosides (APGs), which are biodegradable and renewable; minimizing environmental impact in production through zero discharge technologies and energy-efficient production; sourcing sustainable raw materials and formulations such as bio-based feedstocks and sustainable formulations; assessing product life cycle including eco-conscious design, and recycling and reuse; collaborations with industry and academia including innovation partnerships and sustainable client ssolutions and innovations in waste reduction and recycling. 

With sustainability as a core business strategy, Sauradip prioritizes sustainability within its business model. Our R&D initiatives are vital to enhancing the eco-friendliness of products. Through advances in non-toxic chemicals, sustainable manufacturing practices, and waste reduction, the company is committed to reducing its environmental impact and reinforcing its dedication to sustainability in the chemical industry.

How is Sauradip implementing green chemistry principles in product development?

Sauradip Chemical Industries integrates green chemistry principles into its product development to enhance environmental sustainability. Sauradip produces items such as APGs from renewable, plant-based materials, replacing traditional petrochemical surfactants. This approach promotes the use of sustainable raw materials and helps minimize the ecological footprint.

The company adopts green technologies that aim to minimize waste generation and harmful emissions during production. Sauradip designs products that are non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe for the environment.

Sauradip Chemical Industries embodies green chemistry by prioritizing sustainable practices like utilizing renewable feedstocks, cutting down on waste, and ensuring safer, more eco-friendly chemical products.

How does Sauradip balance profitability with sustainability?

Sauradip Chemical Industries skillfully balances financial success with environmental responsibility by incorporating sustainable practices into its business operations. Our key approaches include development of eco-conscious products; cost efficiency through green manufacturing; capitalizing on the market demand for sustainable solution; promoting circular economy and reducing waste; building strategic partnerships and obtaining certifications; and commitment to long-term sustainability.

How has Sauradip integrated sustainability into its core strategy?

Sauradip Chemical Industries has effectively woven sustainability into its core strategy by implementing several key initiatives that align environmental stewardship with its business objectives. These efforts are reflected in their product development, manufacturing processes, research and development, and overall corporate vision.

Sauradip prioritizes the creation of biodegradable, plant-based products like Alkyl Polyglucoside, providing non-toxic alternatives to meet the increasing demand for sustainable solutions. We also invest in R&D for sustainable innovations; zero discharge manufacturing practices; commit to circular economy and waste minimization; ethical sourcing of raw materials; energy-efficient operational practices and sustainability as a catalyst for business growth.

Sauradip’s ambitious goal of reaching Rs 1,000 crore in revenue within five years highlights how sustainability serves as a driver for long-term business success, market expansion, and enhanced brand reputation.