New Delhi
India has imposed anti-dumping duties on insoluble sulphur imports from China and Japan, and on vitamin-A palmitate from China, the European Union, and Switzerland. The move aims to protect domestic manufacturers from unfairly low-priced imports, following an investigation by the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR).
Insoluble sulphur is a vital component for tyre manufacturers, enhancing rubber vulcanisation, while vitamin-A palmitate is widely used in fortified foods and pharmaceuticals. The DGTR’s probe, completed in March, found these products were being dumped—sold at artificially low prices—harming local producers.
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs announced that these anti-dumping duties will take effect immediately and remain in force for five years. The duties range from $0.87 to $20.87 per kilogram for vitamin-A palmitate and $259 to $358 per metric tonne for insoluble sulphur.
Anti-dumping duties serve as a safeguard to prevent foreign companies from undercutting domestic industries by selling below market value. This action supports Indian manufacturers facing unfair competition and helps stabilize the local market. The decision comes amid global trade tensions, including recent tariff wars initiated by the US. However, India’s economy is seen as relatively insulated from these shocks, especially with a potential India-US trade deal expected soon. This measure reinforces India’s commitment to protecting its domestic industries while navigating complex global trade dynamics.