India launches anti-dumping probe into halobutyl rubber imports

New Delhi - India has launched a fresh investigation into the dumping of halo isobutene isoprene rubber (HIIR) – also known as halobutyl rubber – from China, Singapore and the US.

The probe is initiated upon a petition by sole local producer Reliance Sibur Elastomers (RSE) and covers 12 months ended 30 June, said the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) in a 31 Oct announcement.

Injury investigation period, according to DGTR, is between April 2021 and June 2025.

The investigation follows an earlier probe by DGTR, which concluded last year with a recommendation of heavy tariffs on HIIR imports from Japan, Russia, Singapore, the UK and US. (ERJ report)

The measure, however, was not approved by the Indian government.

In its latest notice, DGTR said the applicant has claimed that the since antidumping duties were not imposed pursuant to the previous findings, “the domestic industry has continued to suffer retardation to its establishment.”

According to the DGTR document, RSE is the sole supplier of HIIR in India and started production of the material in February 2021, with commercial production achieved on 31 March 2023.

The product under consideration is halobutyl rubber, including bromobutyl rubber (BIIR) and chlorobutyl rubber (CIIR).

The rubber is produced through halogenation of isoprene groups of IIR and is commonly used to manufacture tire inner liners, hoses, seals, membranes, tank linings and conveyor belts.