The DGTR announced the initiation of an anti-dumping investigation into imports of solar encapsulants (excluding EVA encapsulants) from China and mobile covers. The investigation was prompted by applications from RenewSys India and the All India Mobile Cover Manufacturer Association, who alleged that cheap imports were harming domestic production.
Solar encapsulants are a critical component in solar photovoltaic (PV) module manufacturing. The DGTR will examine whether these imports are being dumped in the Indian market and assess any material injury to local producers. If the probe confirms injury, the authority may recommend anti-dumping duties, though the final decision rests with the Ministry of Finance.
Countervailing Duty Probe on Clear Float Glass
In a separate move, the DGTR has initiated a countervailing duty (CVD) investigation into imports of clear float glass from Malaysia and Indonesia. The case was filed by Sisecam Flat Glass India Pvt. Ltd., Gold Plus Glass Industry, Gold Plus Float Glass, and Saint-Gobain India. They alleged that producers in these countries were benefiting from subsidies, enabling exports at unfairly low prices.
The DGTR observed, “The Authority finds prima facie evidence of the existence of countervailable subsidies on production and export of the subject good, such subsidised imports are causing material injury to the domestic industry through their volume and price effects.”
Protecting Domestic Industry Through Fair Trade Measures
Under WTO rules, anti-dumping and anti-subsidy measures are permitted to ensure fair trade. These measures help safeguard domestic producers against unfair practices. India has previously imposed duties on various products, particularly from China, to mitigate the impact of low-cost imports. As reported by knnindia.co.in, the outcome of the ongoing investigations will determine whether duties are required to protect Indian manufacturers. These measures aim to maintain a competitive and fair domestic market.
