India extends anti-dumping duty on Malaysian clear float glass until February 2026

India has extended its anti-dumping duty on imports of clear float glass from Malaysia by an additional 18 months, ensuring continued protection for domestic manufacturers. This critical decision, effective until February 10, 2026, underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding local industry against unfair trade practices and maintaining a level playing field, crucial for fostering sustainable economic growth and resilient urban development.

The levy, originally set to expire in November of the current year, has been prolonged following a sunset review initiated by the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR). This review was prompted by concerns from Indian manufacturers who argued that lifting the duty would lead to a resurgence of imports at unfairly low prices, thereby undermining local production capacity and pricing discipline. Clear float glass, a versatile material classified under Chapter 70 of the customs tariff, is indispensable in various sectors, including construction, automotive, furniture, and the burgeoning solar energy industry.

The initial anti-dumping duty on clear float glass was imposed in November 2020, after an investigation confirmed that dumping from Malaysia was causing material injury to Indian producers. The current extension is a strategic move aimed at preventing the recurrence of such injury, ensuring that domestic industries can compete fairly without being disadvantaged by subsidised or unfairly priced imports. This measure is consistent with India’s robust trade remedy framework, which allows for the continuation of duties beyond the initial five-year period when dumping persists and poses a threat to local industries.

This policy intervention is vital for promoting a balanced and sustainable industrial ecosystem within India. By protecting domestic manufacturing, it encourages local investment, job creation, and technological advancement, which are all critical components of building self-reliant and economically vibrant cities. Furthermore, a stable domestic industry can contribute to more localised supply chains, potentially reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation of goods, aligning with the nation’s broader zero net carbon and eco-friendly urban development goals.

Globally, India stands as the largest importer of clear float glass, ahead of major economies like the US and Mexico, with most of its imports originating from Malaysia, Bangladesh, and Turkey. The decision to extend the duty sends a clear signal to international suppliers that India will maintain stringent oversight on trade practices in sensitive sectors. This proactive stance is essential for ensuring fair competition, supporting the growth of indigenous industries, and ultimately contributing to a more equitable and sustainable economic landscape that benefits all citizens and strengthens the foundations of modern Indian cities.