DGTR Marks 8th Anniversary with Renewed Focus on Fair Trade and Digital Modernization, ET Government

The government on Saturday said it is developing a digital platform to enable the electronic submission of documents in trade remedy investigations.NEW DELHI: The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) celebrated its 8th Foundation Day on Saturday, reaffirming its commitment to protect Indian industry from unfair trade practices and sudden import surges. As part of the observance, the government announced plans to soon launch a digital platform for electronic submission of documents in trade remedy investigations, aiming to enhance transparency, efficiency, and stakeholder access.

Established in 2018 through the merger of the Directorate General of Anti-Dumping and Allied Duties (DGAD) and the Directorate General of Safeguards, DGTR functions as India’s unified authority for trade remedy investigations, including anti-dumping, countervailing, and safeguard measures.

Over the past three decades, India has initiated more than 1,200 trade remedy investigations, with DGTR playing a pivotal role in ensuring timely intervention. In recent years, the directorate has acted decisively in sectors such as solar energy and advanced materials, imposing duties to counter unfair pricing and subsidies on imports of solar cells, copper wire rods, and similar products.

The upcoming digital filing platform is seen as a major reform in streamlining trade remedy processes, particularly beneficial for industries seeking quicker resolution and procedural clarity.

DGTR’s role extends beyond domestic action. Through its Trade Defence Wing, the directorate actively contests unjustified trade remedy measures imposed by foreign authorities on Indian exports. This proactive stance has led to reduced duties or complete relief in several cases, safeguarding India’s trade interests abroad.

Director General of DGTR commended the dedication of officers and staff in strengthening India’s trade remedy framework. “The organization has consistently worked towards protecting the interests of Indian industry by ensuring fair competition in the face of volatile global trade conditions,” he said.

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), DGTR launched a dedicated Helpdesk in 2019 to assist with application filing and technical support. The directorate also maintains a robust repository of trade notices, FAQs, and procedural handbooks on its official website to ensure transparency and facilitate informed participation by all stakeholders.

DGTR’s interventions, including safeguard duties and quantitative restrictions, have played a vital role in stabilizing markets for critical commodities such as palm oil and metallurgical coke, especially during periods of sudden import surges.

As it enters its eighth year, DGTR continues to evolve in response to the dynamic global trade landscape, with an unwavering focus on upholding the principles of fairness, competitiveness, and rule-based commerce.

• Published On May 17, 2025 at 04:30 PM IST

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