The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) in India, as highlighted by Additional Secretary Amitabh Kumar, plays a vital role in safeguarding the country’s industries from unfair trade practices. Addressing a media briefing in New Delhi, Kumar emphasized that the DGTR ensures compliance with India’s commitments under the World Trade Organisation (WTO). The agency functions as India’s integrated trade remedy authority, conducting investigations on anti-dumping, anti-subsidy, and safeguard measures.
Trade remedy measures recommended by the DGTR are not meant to restrict imports but to promote fair trade practices. These measures aim to tackle issues such as dumped imports, subsidized imports, and sudden import surges that harm domestic industries. Kumar stressed that the objective is to restore fair competition in the market while allowing legitimate imports to continue at reasonable prices.
In its operations, the DGTR follows a transparent and evidence-based approach. Kumar explained that investigations involve thorough scrutiny of applications, stakeholder submissions analysis, information verification, oral hearings, disclosure of essential facts, and issuance of final findings. The organization ensures that all concerned parties, including domestic producers, exporters, importers, and foreign stakeholders, have ample opportunities to present evidence and engage in the process.
The DGTR maintains a balanced approach, considering the interests of downstream industries, consumers, and user sectors before making any recommendations. Kumar highlighted that the organization adheres to the Lesser Duty Rule, recommending duties only to the extent necessary to alleviate injury to the domestic industry. Additionally, he showcased the Trade Defence Wing established in 2016 to aid Indian exporters facing anti-dumping, countervailing duty, and safeguard investigations abroad.
