Analysis of Recent Anti-Dumping Duty Imposition on Meta Phenylene Diamine Imports from China to India

Notification No. 01/2024 - Dated: 15-1-2024 - Seeks to continue levy of anti-dumping duty on Meta Phenylene Diamine imported from Chian PR for 5 years pursuant to Sunset Review Final Findings issued by DGTR.

Introduction

The Indian government's recent notification regarding the imposition of anti-dumping duties on certain imports from China provides a compelling case study in the application of trade protection measures. Specifically, this concerns the levy of duties on imports of "Meta Phenylene Diamine," a chemical compound, from China.

Background and Goods Involved

As per Notification No. 01/2024, dated 15th January 2024, the Indian government initiated a review of the continuation of anti-dumping duty on imports of Meta Phenylene Diamine, classified under tariff items 2921 51 20 or 2921 51 90. This followed an earlier imposition of anti-dumping duty on these goods originating from China, as per the notification dated 24th January 2019​​.

Findings Leading to the Duty Imposition

The designated authority concluded that:

1. Imports of Meta Phenylene Diamine from China remained substantial in both absolute terms and relative to the domestic industry’s production and Indian demand.
2. The production, sales, and capacity utilization of the domestic industry were adversely impacted due to these dumped imports.
3. There was a likelihood of continuation, even intensification, of dumping and consequent injury to the Indian industry if the existing anti-dumping duties were ceased​​.

Based on these findings, the continued imposition of the anti-dumping duty was recommended to remove injury to the domestic industry.

Detailed Imposition of Anti-Dumping Duties

The Central Government, exercising its powers under the Customs Tariff Act 1975, imposed the following anti-dumping duties:

1. For Zhejiang Amino-Chem Co. Ltd. (China PR): A duty of USD 1.50 per metric ton.
2. For Any Producer other than Zhejiang Amino-Chem Co. Ltd. (China PR): A duty of USD 1.71 per metric ton.
3. For Imports from Any Country other than China PR but exported from China PR: A duty of USD 1.71 per metric ton​​.

These duties are to be levied for a period of five years unless revoked, superseded, or amended earlier, and will be payable in Indian currency​​.

Implications and Impact

This case highlights the Indian government's vigilance in safeguarding its domestic industries against unfair trade practices. The imposition of anti-dumping duties is a significant step in ensuring a level playing field for domestic producers and curbing the negative impacts of dumping. However, it also underscores the need for continuous monitoring and review to adapt to changing market conditions and trade dynamics.

Conclusion

The recent imposition of anti-dumping duties on Meta Phenylene Diamine from China by India is a strategic move to protect its domestic industries from unfair price undercutting. It demonstrates the careful balancing act governments must perform in the global trade arena, ensuring fair competition while safeguarding domestic economic interests.

Full Text:

Notification No. 01/2024 - Dated: 15-1-2024 - Seeks to continue levy of anti-dumping duty on Meta Phenylene Diamine imported from Chian PR for 5 years pursuant to Sunset Review Final Findings issued by DGTR.

Dated: 16-1-2024