The pet food sector in India is expanding quickly, and new policy suggestions could boost India growing even faster. A new report by Rodl & Partner, released at World Food India 2025 in New Delhi, highlighted steps to support this growth. The session titled India’s Pet Food Industry: Scaling for Domestic & Global Growth showed how better policies could strengthen both the market and pet health.
India already has around 42.2 million pets in 2024, and experts expect this number to touch 100 million by 2035. With this rise, the market size of USD 720 million today could reach USD 2 billion. Dog food dominates with more than 85% of sales, but cat food is growing the fastest. E-commerce is driving this trend because people prefer buying pet food online.
The report pointed out that regulations are outdated. For example, pet food attracts 18% GST, while the government taxes shampoos for pets at only 5%. Experts argue this is unfair since food is essential. The study called for a science-based regulatory framework, clear labelling, better testing facilities, and a single-window clearance system for companies.
Dr. Umesh Kalahalli, a veterinarian, wrote in the preface that many Indian pets still eat improvised diets lacking nutrition. He said new rules would help owners trust the products, guide vets in giving advice, and ensure pets receive global-quality food.
At the panel discussion, leaders like Salil Murthy of Mars Petcare India, Satinder Singh of Royal Canin, and Rinka Banerjee of Thinking Forks Consulting stressed three main steps. First, India needs responsible regulations. Second, GST on pet food must be reduced. Third, there must be more awareness about scientific nutrition.
Murthy said less than 10% of households in India buy manufactured food, compared to almost all in developed countries. Singh added that if India adopts better rules, it can support Make in India and become a global hub for pet food exports.
The Ministry of Food Processing Industries also acknowledged this industry’s role in job creation. They linked its growth with the Make in India program and supported calls for stronger, science-backed rules.
World Food India, organized at Bharat Mandapam, has become a vital event for businesses, innovators, and policymakers. The next edition will take place from September 25 to 28, 2025. It will again focus on investment opportunities and food sector growth.
In conclusion, new policy suggestions could boost India growing into a USD 2 billion pet food market by 2035. With modern regulations, fair taxes, and consumer awareness, India can emerge as a leader in global pet care while ensuring its millions of pets enjoy safe and nutritious food.
