The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India has estimated that by 2010 India will be a major global player in bio-product exports, with over $4 billion investment finding its way into the country.

Assocham says that exports would rise to India's neighbouring nations, West Asian, South East Asia, and also to some developed countries.

Also, the healthcare, agriculture, environment and food processing sectors in India will be the major attractions for overseas investors.

In a paper, 'Investment and collaboration opportunities in biotechnology with India', published by it, Assocham has predicted further increase in demand for human and animal healthcare products, which will create tremendous opportunities for the biotech industry.

The paper observed that the demand for existing and new biotech products in India has increased exponentially. It said that nearly 70 per cent of these products are produced through local capabilities and skills, and the awareness about availability of such products too has risen.

It is estimated that this production will increase to about 80 per cent by the year 2005.

Assocham says that the demand for Indian biotech products is seen at $1.15 billion for human and animal healthcare; $954 million for agriculture, $730 million for industrial products and $80 million for other biotech products.