India Initiates Anti-Dumping Probe On Glass Fibre Imports From China, Thailand, Bahrain

India has launched an anti-dumping investigation into the import of glass fibre from China, Thailand, and Bahrain. This move follows a complaint lodged by a domestic manufacturer, Owens-Corning (India), which has raised concerns about the negative impact of cheap imports on the local industry.

The probe, conducted by the commerce ministry's Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), aims to assess the extent of the alleged dumping of glass fibres and related products from these countries. Glass fibre, also known as fibreglass, is a versatile material used in various industrial and domestic applications due to its strength, lightweight properties, flexibility, and ability to be moulded into complex shapes.

Owens-Corning (India) has formally requested this investigation, claiming that the domestic industry is suffering material injury from the influx of low-priced imports. The DGTR's notification states, "On the basis of the duly substantiated written application submitted by the applicant and having reached satisfaction based on the prima facie evidence submitted by the applicant concerning the dumping of the product, the Authority hereby initiates an anti-dumping investigation."

Should the investigation confirm that dumping has indeed caused material injury to Indian manufacturers, the DGTR is expected to recommend the imposition of anti-dumping duties on these imports. The final decision to implement such duties lies with the finance ministry.

Anti-dumping investigations are standard procedures undertaken by countries to protect their domestic industries from unfair competition posed by the import of goods at below-market prices. These duties, sanctioned under the multilateral framework of the World Trade Organization (WTO), are designed to ensure fair trade practices and create a level playing field for local producers.

India has a history of imposing anti-dumping duties on various products to mitigate the impact of cheap imports, particularly from countries like China. This latest probe signifies India's ongoing commitment to safeguarding its domestic industries against unfair trade practices.