On May 17, 2025, the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) celebrated its 8th Foundation Day, marking seven years of dedicated efforts to protect Indian industries from unfair trade practices and sudden import surges. The Director General of DGTR commended the organization’s officers for their role in maintaining the integrity of India’s trade remedy ecosystem.
Legacy of Trade Remedy Investigations
Protecting Domestic Industries
Since 1995, India has initiated over 1,200 trade remedy investigations, with DGTR playing a pivotal role in conducting these swiftly, often within one year. Recent interventions have safeguarded sectors like solar energy and advanced materials, including solar cells and copper wire rods, from unfairly priced imports and subsidized goods.
| Sector | Protected Products |
|---|---|
| Solar Energy | Solar cells |
| Advanced Materials | Copper wire rods |
Upcoming Digital Platform for E-Filing
Enhancing Transparency and Efficiency
The Government of India is developing a digital platform for electronic submission of documents in trade remedy investigations. Set to launch soon, this platform will improve transparency, efficiency, and accessibility for stakeholders, streamlining the process of addressing trade grievances.
Safeguard Measures Against Import Surges
Stabilizing Markets
Through safeguard duties and quantitative restrictions, DGTR has countered sudden import surges in products like palm oil and metallurgical coke. These measures have stabilized markets and preserved industrial competitiveness, particularly for manufacturing sectors vulnerable to global trade volatility.
Support for MSMEs
Empowering Small Businesses
In 2019, DGTR launched a dedicated Helpdesk to assist micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This initiative supports smaller businesses in navigating trade remedy processes by addressing technical and data-related challenges, enabling them to file applications effectively.
Promoting Transparency and Accessibility
Resources for Stakeholders
DGTR enhances transparency by providing trade notices, handbooks, and FAQs on its website. These resources clarify procedural aspects, empowering domestic industries, foreign exporters, and other stakeholders to participate in defending their trade interests.
Global Trade Defense
Protecting Indian Exports
Through its Trade Defence Wing, DGTR has contested trade remedy measures imposed by foreign authorities, securing reduced duties or complete relief for Indian exports. This proactive approach safeguards India’s international trade interests.
DGTR’s Evolution and Mission
A Unified Trade Authority
Established in 2018 by consolidating the Directorate General of Anti-Dumping and Allied Duties (DGAD) and the Directorate General of Safeguards, DGTR serves as India’s unified authority for trade remedy investigations. It imposes anti-dumping, countervailing, and safeguard measures to ensure a level playing field for domestic producers.
Key Highlights of the Event
- DGTR celebrated its 8th Foundation Day on May 17, 2025.
- Over 1,200 trade remedy investigations initiated since 1995.
- Upcoming digital platform for e-filing in trade remedy investigations.
- Helpdesk launched in 2019 to support MSMEs in trade processes.
- Trade Defence Wing secures relief for Indian exports globally.