The Indian government has initiated a countervailing duty investigation into rising imports of Calcium Carbonate Filler Masterbatch from Vietnam, a key material used in the plastic industry. The probe follows complaints from domestic manufacturers alleging that these imports are subsidized by the Vietnamese government, creating an uneven playing field.

The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), under the Ministry of Commerce, is leading the investigation to determine whether the subsidies provided by Vietnam are causing material injury to India’s domestic plastic industry.

The move comes as part of efforts to safeguard local manufacturers from the surge in subsidized imports, which have reportedly impacted their competitiveness in the market.

If the probe confirms unfair trade practices, India may impose countervailing duties on the imports to neutralize the subsidy effect and protect domestic industries. The investigation marks a step towards ensuring fair trade and leveling the market for local players.