Sivakasi: Matches, Fireworks and Print
Markets, Prices and Competition
Sivakasi's producers sell across India, compete on price, and face pressures from taxes, raw material costs and changing rules.
How the industry sells and what shapes its profit.
Selling
Crackers and matches are sold through wholesalers and retailers across India, with big volumes before festivals.
Costs
Chemical, paper and labour costs shape margins.
Tax
Fireworks are taxed at a high GST rate, which raises prices.
Import limits
Imports of fireworks are tightly restricted, which protects domestic makers.
Wholesale season
Wholesalers place large orders months ahead, so a sudden rule change can leave both sides with unsold stock.
Assuming demand is easy to predict
Weather, rules and consumer mood all matter.
Key takeaways
- Sales peak before festivals.
- Costs and taxes shape margins.
- Import limits protect local makers.
- Rules make demand uncertain.
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