The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) on March 19, 2026, issued notification regarding the Initiation of anti-dumping investigation concerning imports of “Phenol” from Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and United States of America.
The application has been filed under the provisions of the Customs Tariff Act, 1975 and the relevant Anti-Dumping Rules by Deepak Phenolics Limited (DPCL) and Hindustan Organic Chemicals Ltd (HOCL) seeking initiation of an anti-dumping investigation on imports of Phenol from multiple countries, including Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and the United States. The product under consideration is Phenol, an aromatic organic compound (C₆H₆O), commonly known as carbolic acid, which is a white crystalline solid used in various industrial applications. It falls under Chapter 29 of the tariff classification, though the classification is indicative and not binding for the scope of investigation.
The applicants have claimed that the domestically produced Phenol is a “like article” to the imported product, as both are comparable in terms of physical and chemical properties, manufacturing processes, usage, pricing, and marketability. The goods are technically and commercially substitutable and are used interchangeably by consumers. The investigation covers imports from the identified subject countries, with the period of investigation determined as January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025, while the injury analysis considers data from earlier financial years as well.
The Authority has recognized DPCL and HOCL as constituting the domestic industry, noting that any imports made by the applicants themselves are minimal and do not affect their standing. The applicants are not related to exporters or importers of the subject goods. Based on the data submitted, the Authority has prima facie accepted the methodology for determining normal value and export price. The comparison indicates that the dumping margin is above the de-minimis level, suggesting that Phenol is being exported to India at unfairly low prices.
The applicants have also provided evidence of injury to the domestic industry caused by these imports. While there has not been a significant decline in production volumes, there has been substantial price suppression and depression due to imports. This has led to reduced profitability, financial losses, negative returns on capital employed, and cash losses. The Authority has observed a clear causal link between dumped imports and the injury suffered by the domestic producers.
Based on the prima facie evidence of dumping, injury, and causal link, the Authority has initiated an anti-dumping investigation under Section 9A of the Act read with the relevant rules. The investigation will determine the extent and impact of dumping and recommend appropriate anti-dumping duties, if necessary, to protect the domestic industry.
The procedure for the investigation will follow the prescribed rules, and all interested parties—including exporters, importers, governments of subject countries, and other stakeholders—are required to register on the DGTR’s SETU portal and submit relevant information within stipulated timelines. Submissions must include both confidential and non-confidential versions, with proper justification for confidentiality claims. Strict timelines have been set for submission of responses, comments, and data, failing which the Authority may rely on available facts.
The notification also outlines provisions for inspection of public files, handling of confidential information, and consequences of non-cooperation. Interested parties are advised to regularly monitor updates from the Directorate General of Trade Remedies to stay informed about developments in the investigation.
[Case No. AD(OI) – 11/2026]
