Indian Stainless Steel Industry Pushes for Anti-Dumping Probe on Chinese and Southeast Asian Imports

 Stainless Steel

Domestic Producers Cite Unfair Competition Threatening MSMEs’ Viability

ISSDA Advocates Targeted Duties to Restore Market Balance

India’s stainless steel sector is calling for urgent government action to curb surging low-cost imports from China, Vietnam, and Malaysia, which domestic producers allege are being dumped at unfairly low prices.

The Indian Stainless Steel Development Association (ISSDA) announced its intention to petition the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) for an anti-dumping investigation into stainless steel imports from select countries that are allegedly distorting the Indian market.

Unfair Pricing Undermines Domestic Producers

According to ISSDA President Rajamani Krishnamurti, domestic stainless steel manufacturers—especially Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)—face growing pressure from dumped imports. “Our members face unfair competition from imports being dumped into the Indian market at artificially low prices,” he stated.

Krishnamurti warned that the current situation is not sustainable and is eroding the competitiveness of Indian producers, ultimately threatening long-term investments and manufacturing employment.

Targeted Measures Inspired by Global Precedents

The ISSDA argues that anti-dumping duties, similar to those adopted in carbon steel and aluminum sectors, are necessary to level the playing field. “We are requesting targeted duties that reflect the true extent of dumping and restore fair market conditions,” Krishnamurti explained.

Such remedies, if implemented, could protect Indian stainless steel mills from price suppression and margin erosion caused by imported products entering below fair market value.

Support for Broader Trade Defense Strategy

The ISSDA also voiced support for India’s recent proposal to impose retaliatory duties against the United States at the World Trade Organization (WTO). “India's move sends a powerful message: fair and equitable trade practices are essential for a balanced and predictable global trading environment,” Krishnamurti stated.

The stainless steel body’s position underscores a growing trend among Indian industries toward assertive trade defense mechanisms, as they seek to shield domestic capacities from unfair external pressures.

If the DGTR accepts ISSDA’s request, the probe could result in duties on dumped imports, supporting domestic stainless steel output while reinforcing India’s stance on trade fairness and industrial sustainability.