India Proposes Five-Year Extension of Anti-Dumping Duty on Malaysian Glass to Protect Domestic Industry
New Delhi — India’s trade authority has proposed a five-year extension of anti-dumping duties on glass imports from Malaysia, a strategic step to safeguard the interests of local manufacturers and ensure fair market practices. The recommendation reflects India’s growing commitment to supporting domestic industries and promoting self-reliance under its Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.
The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), the country’s trade watchdog, suggested that continuing the duties would prevent unfair pricing practices and dumping of low-cost imports, which could harm India’s glass manufacturing sector. This move aligns with the government’s long-term goal of creating a level playing field for Indian producers while ensuring stable and competitive market growth.
India initially imposed anti-dumping duties on Malaysian clear float glass in 2020, after investigations revealed that Malaysian exporters were selling glass in India at prices below fair market value. These duties helped stabilize prices and revive the local industry, which supplies essential materials for the country’s booming construction and automobile sectors.
With India’s economy expanding at around 7% annually, demand for glass continues to rise due to increased housing, infrastructure, and automotive development. Extending the duties will help ensure that domestic producers can meet this growing demand without facing unfair competition from underpriced imports.
The DGTR’s recent investigation was initiated following applications from leading Indian manufacturers such as Asahi India Glass, Saint-Gobain India, and Gold Plus Glass Industry. These companies urged the government to maintain the duties, emphasizing the importance of protecting Indian production capacity and employment in the face of rising imports.
According to the DGTR’s findings, even with duties in place, imports from Malaysia reached 361,000 metric tons in 2024, capturing nearly 18% of India’s market share. The report highlighted that Malaysian glass prices were up to 40% lower than those of Indian manufacturers, leading to losses, reduced margins, and growing inventories for domestic companies.
To address this imbalance, the DGTR proposed that anti-dumping duties remain in force for another five years, citing concerns that lifting them could flood the market with cheap imports. Such a surge, the report warned, could hinder local investment and discourage innovation within the Indian glass industry.
The authority calculated dumping margins of up to 30% and injury margins as high as 70%, illustrating the extent of price manipulation faced by Indian producers. By extending the duties, India aims to strengthen domestic output, secure jobs, and attract more investment into manufacturing.
The finance ministry will now review the DGTR’s recommendation before making a final decision. However, industry experts are optimistic, viewing the proposal as a positive sign for India’s industrial policy and economic self-reliance.
Analysts note that maintaining fair trade practices is crucial for sustaining the nation’s rapid industrial expansion. With new infrastructure projects, rising export opportunities, and a renewed focus on renewable energy applications like solar glass, India’s glass industry stands poised for long-term growth.
This extension will also help local players enhance production quality, adopt advanced technologies, and compete globally. By ensuring protection from unfair trade practices, India is fostering a more resilient and sustainable domestic market.
The DGTR’s action demonstrates a proactive approach toward defending the nation’s economic interests while promoting equitable global trade. It reinforces India’s reputation as a responsible and forward-looking participant in international commerce.
The proposal marks another milestone in India’s journey toward economic strength, manufacturing independence, and global competitiveness. Through prudent policy and strategic trade defense, the country continues to nurture industries vital to its development and employment generation.
