Spike in imports raises trade diversion concerns

Imports from nations like China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Nepal Bangladesh are being investigated

- Rajeev Jayaswal

India has initiated investigations into an unusual spike in a month in imports of over a dozen products from countries including China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Bangladesh and Nepal, even as the world witnesses large-scale trade diversion because of the US tariff barriers, government officials said.

At least 14 products are under the scanner, including different chemicals, steel tubes, various types of glasses, jute items and paperboards, said a commerce ministry official who asked not to be named.

“Industry bodies, sectoral ministries and government agencies are on high alert to report any unusual import surge due to trade diversion. Based on their inputs, the government will conduct an investigation and take remedial action immediately to protect domestic units,” he added.