The Department of Biotechnology has named bio-based chemicals and enzymes as a priority under the BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy, which promotes high-performance biomanufacturing. Bio-based chemicals come from sources such as sugarcane, corn, starch and biomass waste, while enzymes act as catalysts in detergents, food, pharma, textiles and paper. India imported about US$479.8 million of acetic acid in 2023, showing the need to reduce reliance on petrochemical imports.