Q1. Could you start by giving us a brief overview of your professional background, particularly focusing on your expertise in the industry 

I am currently working with Pilot Industries Ltd. as a Senior Procurement Manager. I have been working in the field of procurement import for the last 11 years, and I am importing lead scrap batteries, lead scrap, and Remelted lead around 6000 Mt per month. We import from various countries around the world.  

Q2. What demand shifts are you observing in the lead and lead alloy markets driven by EV battery consumption and industrial demand in 2025–2026?

Currently, we are not observing major changes in the consumption of Lead alloys. However, as the government and the automobile industry focus more on EVs in the near future, consumption will be affected for sure.

Q3.  Which export markets are showing the fastest growth for Indian lead alloy producers—are you seeing shifts toward Africa, Latin America, or Southeast Asia?

For export, Southeast Asia is a major market for Indian lead-exporting countries, such as Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Bangladesh. Exporters are also trying to increase their presence in the Middle East. Africa might not be the future market, but yes, Latin America can be examined, but it is a bit odd due to the long distance.

Q4. Where are you seeing technology-driven moats emerge in the metals export or recycling value chain?

Apart from manufacturing technologies and plant activities, I am not seeing it in other fields.

Q5. What kinds of partnerships are becoming critical to protect margins and customer stickiness?

Partnerships between manufacturers and transporters, as well as between manufacturers and shipping lines, are critical.

Q6. Which business models or players do you believe are best positioned to scale sustainably over the next 3–5 years, given the evolving trade dynamics, compliance landscape, and technological disruption in metals export and recycling?

Business models and players who are dynamic and ready to embrace changes will be best positioned, and those with a better workforce will be able to sustain themselves more effectively.

Q7. If you were an investor looking at companies within the space, what critical question would you pose to their senior management? 

I will definitely look at their future projects and projections, and I will also ask about the current performance, and it should be sustainable.