Gujarat Ice Cream Makers Face Cone Shortage
Ice cream manufacturers in Gujarat are bracing for a potential shortage of cones ahead of the peak summer season due to disruptions in natural gas supply triggered by geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Cones, packaging materials, ice cream cakes and roasted dry fruits depend heavily on gas during production, and the reduced supply has already slowed manufacturing across the sector.
Industry representatives, including Bhupat Bhuva of the Gujarat Ice Cream Association and Himanshu Kanwar of Vadilal Industries, warned that constrained production could tighten availability during the high-demand months. Prices of cones and related materials have already increased by up to 30%, and manufacturers expect ice cream prices to rise by around 10% in April if the situation persists.
The crunch follows government-imposed restrictions on industrial gas usage as supplies are prioritised for households. However, some companies are better prepared; Amul has secured supply continuity through its own facilities, including a ₹50-crore cone plant at Sumul Dairy and production support from the Anand-based Kaira Can Company. Industry players say the situation could worsen if gas availability does not improve in the coming months.
Source: Dairynews7x7 12th March, Read full story here
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