Budget comment: Michael Perschke - Head, Audi India

“The increase in excise and customs duty on large cars in this Budget is very surprising. This increase comes at a time when the Indian automotive industry was finding favour with customers looking for better and efficient cars. We may now need to re-evaluate our pricing strategy in India.

However, we do welcome the positive announcements on increase of investments in infrastructure and encouragement to private investment which should drive higher growth in the economy. The revision and reduction of personal tax slabs will result in increased savings and possibly higher spends. The GDP growth forecast of 7.6 percent for the next financial year also augurs well for the country and we expect India to remain one of the most vibrant consumer markets.”