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Credit: Special Arrangement
Fireworks manufacturers in Sivakasi, popularly known as Little Japan for its vibrant workforce, will soon be able to export firecrackers directly from Chennai Port after nearly 15 years.
This development follows approval granted by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) for two coastal berths (CB1 and CB2) at Chennai Port to handle IMDG Class 1 dangerous goods (explosives) in containers, as announced in a circular issued on July 30, 2025.
The fireworks industry in Sivakasi is valued at around Rs 6,000 crore, meeting over 90% of the country’s firecracker demand. Sivakasi and its neighbouring areas have about 1,108 factories producing firecrackers of all kinds, including the fancy crackers that light up the sky.
Resuming exports will not only enhance the competitiveness of this cluster but also showcase its innovation in producing green crackers -- an eco-friendly alternative designed to reduce particulate matter (PM) emissions and address growing environmental concerns.
However, challenges remain. Supreme Court’s ban on Barium Nitrate, a key chemical traditionally essential for fireworks manufacturing, continues to affect production.
Industry representatives told DH that the Centre should permit the use of Barium Nitrate for fireworks intended solely for export, noting that many international markets still prefer conventional fireworks, though they may transition to green crackers in the long run.
Historically, Sivakasi’s fireworks were exported to markets such as the US, Europe, Australia, and South Africa, but they ceased in the early 2000s mainly due to logistical challenges.
P Ganesan, President, Tamil Nadu Fire Works Amorces Manufacturers Association (TANFAMA), told DH that direct shipments from Chennai Port will reduce export transit times for Sivakasi fireworks manufacturers by eliminating the need for transshipment at intermediate ports like Singapore and Colombo.
“The Sivakasi industry is fully equipped with the necessary technology and skilled workforce to cater to the export market. We have already informed our members about this development and are encouraging them to prepare to tap into export opportunities. We will adapt our products according to the needs of our overseas customers,” he said.
Ganesan added that manufacturers can start production for export markets from November, once they resume operations after the Deepavali break.
“Most countries still require barium nitrate in their fireworks. Unless the Centre permits its use for exported crackers, we cannot fulfill those market demands. We cannot force them to buy the fireworks that are available with us. We have to produce fireworks and crackers according to the approved specifications given by them,” he added.
The new approval for berths CB1 and CB2 at Chennai Port will provide dedicated infrastructure for handling explosives directly, facilitating direct shipments and likely reducing costs and transit times for fireworks exports.
Another manufacturer said he continues to receive inquiries from American and European buyers but lamented the inability to export due to logistical constraints.
“We stopped exporting because most ocean liners are reluctant to transport hazardous goods like explosives, especially with transshipment complications at ports and the volume of cargo unwilling to handle such cargo. Streamlined handling facilities will enable us to compete better,” the manufacturer said.
If this opportunity is utilised properly, Sivakasi has the potential to capture a segment of the global market currently dominated by China, which accounts for about 82% of world fireworks exports, with both conventional and green crackers, manufacturers said.
Moreover, fireworks manufacturers believe that as countries intensify efforts to combat pollution, Sivakasi is well-positioned to meet growing demand for environmentally friendly fireworks, as many markets transition from conventional products.
Looking ahead, TANFAMA is considering approaching Vizhinjam International Seaport, about 240 km from Sivakasi, to request allocation of an exclusive berth for handling and exporting fireworks. “While we will begin exporting through Chennai Port, Vizhinjam is geographically closer and could serve as a strategic export hub in the future,” Ganesan said.