ABSTRACT

This chapter examines some of the issues and questions in the context of the Indian electronics industry, which is characterised by complex supply chains and high levels of international sourcing. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the sustainability issues surrounding the electronic components trade between India and the European Union (EU), and to identify the measures and actions needed to integrate sustainability factors into an economically sustainable export strategy. The chapter explores the critical sustainability challenges facing the electronics industry and reviews the implications of EU regulations such as the directive on Waste from electrical and electronic equipment for developing-country suppliers. It provides a brief description of the electronics economy, the major sub-sectors and the key dynamics relating to the role of multinationals, contract manufacturing, international sourcing and system integration. The chapter focuses on the ability and readiness of the Indian electronic components sector to adapt to the emerging sustainability challenges.