ISMA Demands 95% Safeguard Duty on Solar Cells Import

Indian Solar Manufacturers Association (ISMA), during a public hearing called by the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), has demanded imposition of 95 percent safeguard duty on imported solar cells and modules, aiming to protect the domestic players from cheap inbound shipments.

During hearing, the directorate heard different sections of solar energy sector on safeguard duty investigation of solar cells and modules.

Speaking on the matter, ISMA, Coordinator, Dhruv Sharma said, “According to the ISMA data submitted to the DGTR, the injury from solar imports is to the tune of 95 percent and therefore ISMA sought the proportionate safeguard duty on the solar equipment imports.”

He expressed hope that a decision would be taken by the authority by the middle of next month.

However, according to the Solar Power Developer Association (SPDA), safeguard duty imposition can jeopardise India’s ambitious target of having 100 GW by 2022 as it would directly impact 25 GW capacity which either tendered or being tendered.

The ISMA in its submission has stated that India is missing out on a multi-billion opportunity for the country by allowing import of inputs from countries such as China, Taiwan and Malaysia.

“India is estimated to add capacity of 9,000 MW solar power in 2018. This means India will give away market opportunity worth Rs 21,500 crore to China, Taiwan or Malaysia at the cost of interests and employment of national capital and labour,” it said.

India is aiming 100 GW solar capacity by 2022. In India solar cells are mainly imported from China, Malaysia, Singapore and Taiwan. Solar cells import from these countries account for over 90 percent of the total inbound shipments in the country.

Source: PTI