India has imposed an anti-dumping duty ranging from $570 to $664 per tonne on imports of a specific type of solar glass from China and Vietnam for five years, starting from December 4, 2024. This measure aims to protect domestic manufacturers from a surge in cheap imports that threaten local industry. The action follows a detailed investigation by the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), the Commerce Ministry’s probe arm, which found a substantial increase in the volume of dumped imports—both in absolute and relative terms.
Anti-Dumping Duty on Solar Glass to Boost Domestic Manufacturing in India
The glass in question, commonly referred to as Solar Glass, Low Iron Solar Glass, Solar PV Glass, or High Transmission Photovoltaic Glass, is used extensively in solar panels. The probe was initiated following a complaint from Borosil Renewables Ltd., which filed the application on behalf of the Indian solar glass industry.
Borosil Renewables welcomed the government’s decision, stating that it will significantly boost domestic manufacturing capabilities in the solar sector. The anti-dumping duty aligns with India’s broader efforts to promote self-reliance in renewable energy components and reduce dependence on foreign imports.
India Imposes Anti-Dumping Duty to Ensure Fair Trade and Protect Domestic Industries
Anti-dumping measures are permitted under the framework of the World Trade Organization (WTO), of which both India and China are members. These duties are designed to counteract unfair trade practices by ensuring that foreign producers do not sell goods below market value to gain an unfair advantage over local manufacturers.
The Finance Ministry confirmed in its notification that the duty will remain in effect for five years unless amended or revoked earlier. India has previously imposed similar duties on various other imports from China and other countries as part of its strategy to create a level playing field for domestic industries and promote fair trade practices within the multilateral trading system.
Summary:
India has imposed an anti-dumping duty of $570 to $664 per tonne on solar glass imports from China and Vietnam for five years, starting December 2024. This move aims to protect local manufacturers and promote self-reliance in the solar sector. The duty follows a probe by the Directorate General of Trade Remedies.
