On 29 March 2025, India’s Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has initiated an anti-dumping investigation concerning imports of Low Ash Metallurgical Coke (Met Coke) from six countries: Australia, China, Colombia, Indonesia, Japan, and Russia. The investigation follows a petition filed by the Indian Metallurgical Coke Manufacturer’s Association (IMCOM) on behalf of domestic producers; Bhatia Coke and Energy Limited, BLA Coke Private Limited, Jindal Coke Limited, Saurashtra Fuels Private Limited, Vedanta MALCO Energy Limited. These companies represent approximately 85% of India’s eligible Met Coke production. Notably, producers using Met Coke captively for steel manufacturing were excluded from this investigation as they do not compete in the merchant market.

The petition alleges that these imports are being dumped into the Indian market at prices below their normal value, causing material injury to the domestic industry. The DGTR has found sufficient prima facie evidence to justify the initiation of this investigation.

The product in question is Low Ash Metallurgical Coke with ash content below 18%, used primarily as a fuel in industries requiring high and uniform temperatures, such as steel production, ferroalloy manufacturing, and foundries. It is imported under HS Codes 27040010, 27040020, 27040030, and 27040090.

The DGTR has cited evidence of declining profitability and market share for Indian producers due to price undercutting by imported Met Coke. The injury period under review spans from April 2021 to September 2024. Along with the period of investigation from October 1, 2023 – September 31 , 2024 (12 Months). 

Under the Indonesian tariff classifications, BPS data showcase only exports of MET Coke under HS 27040010 with trade volumes and value to India within the time span equating to:

In 2024, exports of the product to India constituted nearly 50% of Indonesia’s worldwide export value, which was at US$ 1,520,217. Interested parties have been invited to submit their responses within 30 days from the date of notification. The DGTR will assess whether anti-dumping duties are necessary to protect domestic manufacturers from unfair trade practices.