Chennai: Deeply disappointed” with the move by traders in Tamil Nadu to boycott Pepsi and Coca Cola products, the Indian Beverage Association on Wednesday said the decision was against proven fundamentals of robust economic growth and violates the rights of the consumer to exercise choice.
In a statement, the IBA said the decision of the traders association in Tamil Nadu was against the clarion call of “Make in India” by the Union Government and said the two companies together provide direct employment to 2,000 families in TN and more than 5,000 families indirectly, through their extensive supply chain.
“IBA hopes that good sense will prevail and that consumers will continue to have the right to exercise their choice in Tamil Nadu. IBA is open to engage with any organisation that has a diverse point of view,” the IBA said in the statement issued on Wednesday. Traders in the state have decided to boycott products manufactured by Pepsi and Coca Cola.
It also said products manufactured by Coca Cola and Pepsi are of global standards and one of the safest available. “No less than the Hon'ble Supreme Court of Indian its order passed on October 22, 2013, after noting FSSAI's submission said that basis the existing consumption patterns prevalent in India, ingredients present in aerated beverages do not pose any health hazard,” the statement said.
The IBA claimed that the two companies “play a critical role” in improving the livelihood of over 2 lakh retailers, who earn more than Rs 400 crore in income by selling products manufactured by the two companies. The companies also sustain the interests of thousands of Tamil farmers, by procuring agri-produce, the statement said.
