India’s Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into copper data cable imports from China. The probe follows complaints by Birla Cable and Sterlite Technologies, which alleged that dumped imports have depressed domestic prices and hurt profitability. The investigation will cover FY25, with the injury assessment spanning FY22–FY25, signaling India’s push to shield its domestic telecom and infrastructure cable industry.
Core Development
DGTR said there is prima facie evidence that Chinese exporters have been dumping copper data cables into India at prices below domestic production costs. The investigation will examine whether such imports have caused “material injury” to local producers.
Copper data cables, used widely in LAN networks and digital transmission, form a critical part of India’s IT and telecom infrastructure. The domestic industry has alleged that unfair pricing practices suppressed sales and weakened financial performance.
Key Drivers / Issues
The probe has been prompted by:
Rising low-priced imports from China undercutting Indian manufacturers.
Complaints that imports have suppressed domestic prices and eroded margins.
The strategic importance of copper data cables in India’s digital infrastructure and connectivity drive.
Stakeholder Impact
For domestic producers like Birla Cable and Sterlite Technologies, the probe may offer tariff relief if duties are imposed. Importers and downstream industries may face higher costs if anti-dumping duties are levied. For the government, the move aligns with broader efforts to protect local manufacturing and ensure fair competition in sensitive sectors.
Industry & Policy Reactions
The notification noted that the applicants’ profitability and return on capital employed had declined steadily during the review period. Industry experts argue that unchecked dumping could threaten India’s ambitions of building a resilient telecom and IT hardware supply chain.
Challenges Ahead
Balancing the interests of domestic manufacturers with those of consumers who benefit from lower-priced imports.
Ensuring duties, if imposed, comply with WTO rules.
Addressing potential trade tensions with China amid ongoing global tariff disputes.
Strategic Outlook
The anti-dumping probe could reshape India’s telecom and IT cable ecosystem, potentially boosting domestic manufacturing under the government’s Make in India and Digital India initiatives. If duties are levied, it could level the playing field for Indian firms but also raise input costs for downstream industries.
Why This Matters
Copper data cables are essential for India’s digital infrastructure. The DGTR probe reflects New Delhi’s resolve to safeguard domestic industries from unfair trade practices while balancing consumer and industry needs in a globally sensitive sector.
