Tue Apr 22 07:24:56 UTC 2025: ## Indian E-waste Policy Sparks Legal Battle with Tech Giants

**NEW DELHI, April 22, 2025** – Major electronics companies, including LG and Samsung, have filed lawsuits against the Indian government, challenging a new e-waste pricing policy. The policy mandates a minimum payment of 22 rupees (25 US cents) per kilogram for recycling consumer electronics. Companies argue this will drastically increase their costs, potentially tripling them, and unfairly benefits recyclers.

The lawsuits, filed in the Delhi High Court and set for hearing today, represent a significant escalation of tensions between multinational corporations and the Modi administration over environmental regulations. Other companies, including Daikin, Havells, Voltas, and Blue Star, have also challenged the policy, citing compliance burdens and financial impacts. Johnson Controls-Hitachi recently withdrew its lawsuit without explanation.

The Indian government defends the policy, stating it aims to formalize the largely informal e-waste recycling sector and attract investment. India is the world’s third-largest generator of e-waste, with only 43% recycled last year. The government contends that the new pricing mechanism is necessary to incentivize formal recycling practices and reduce environmental damage.

However, the plaintiffs argue the policy ignores the challenges of regulating the informal sector and that market forces should determine pricing, not government mandate. They claim the fixed price is excessively high compared to current market rates, which are reportedly 5-15 times lower. Research firm Redseer highlights that India’s recycling rates lag behind those of the US and China.

The legal challenge highlights a clash between the government’s environmental goals and the concerns of major corporations regarding the economic impact of stricter regulations. The outcome of these lawsuits will significantly influence India’s approach to e-waste management and the future of the recycling industry within the country.

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