Global conflicts take the moolah out of the Amritsar chess industry

A bustling industry of chess kits with an international clientele is struggling due to global uncertainty following the Israel and Ukraine wars.

- HARPREET BAJWA

Before the wars broke, chess kit manufacturers in Amritsar sold goods worth about 20 crore, of which 75% was exported. Export orders are now Clown by 70-80%. Wooden chess kits are among the sought-after gift items during Christmas and New Year, yet there is little demand as of now.

"Though winter is our busiest season, most of us hardly have any orders," rues Rishi Sharma, a third generation manufacturer, who says his business took a 40% hit last year. He proudly claims he made a chess set for English business magnate Richard Branson in 2021.