India lodges anti-dumping probe against cheap aluminium solar frame imports from China

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry in India has expressed plans to initiate a new investigation concerning the import of aluminium frames for solar modules. This development comes after the conclusion of an investigation into solar cells from China, Thailand, and Vietnam in December 2022.

Vishakha Materials has lodged a petition alleging that the solar aluminium frames imported from China are sold in significant quantities at reduced prices, adversely affecting the Indian industry.

The investigation will evaluate the extent and impact of the alleged dumping and introduce anti-dumping duty as a measure to address any adverse impact on the Indian industry. The investigation period will span from April 2022 to March 2023, while the injury duration will be from April 2019 to March 2022.

Anti-dumping investigations are essential in evaluating whether or not inexpensive imports are having a detrimental impact on the domestic industry. The imposition of anti-dumping duty will help ensure equitable trading practices, create a level-playing field for both domestic and foreign manufacturers, and enable domestic producers to earn reasonable profit margins.

To promote a sustainable model for the domestic industry, a basic customs duty was imposed on solar modules and solar cells in April 2022. However, due to a relaxation in ALMM requirements for projects, there was a domestic supply shortage, and prices increased, making it possible for imports to enter the market again.