An application has been filed before the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), to initiate an anti-dumping investigation on the import of a chemical `ATS-8’  from China. This chemical is used in the pharmaceutical industry. The application has been filed by Arch Pharma Labs before the DGTR. It was alleged that the dumping of the product has impacted the industry.

Based on the duly substantiated written application by or on behalf of the domestic industry, and having satisfied itself, based on the prima facie evidence submitted about the dumping, the DGTR has initiated the investigations, according to a notification of the directorate.

If it is established that the dumping has caused material injury to the domestic players, the DGTR would recommend the imposition of anti-dumping duty on imports from China.

The finance ministry takes the final decision to impose the duties.

The product is a key raw material to manufacture Atorvastatin API (active pharma ingredient).

Atorvastatin drug formulations are widely used to treat the lowering of excess cholesterol condition, which can otherwise lead to cardiovascular problems like heart attack and stroke, if not treated.

The duty is aimed at ensuring fair trading practices and creating a level-playing field for domestic producers vis-a-vis foreign producers and exporters.

India has already imposed an anti-dumping duty on several products to tackle cheap imports from various countries, including China.