Duty evasion on Chinese sweetener leaves bitter taste, invites probe

DGTR probes alleged circumvention of countervailing duty via trade re-routing

The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) has initiated investigation concerning alleged circumvention of countervailing duty imposed on imports of saccharin from China after complaints that the artificial sweetener originating from China is being exported via Thailand.

Saccharin is used in food and beverages, personal care products, table-top sweeteners, electroplating brighteners, pharmaceuticals, among others.  

DGTR had recommended countervailing duty on imports of saccharin from China in June 2019, which was approved and notified by the finance ministry in August 2019. The countervailing duty of 20 per cent is in force until July 2024.

Countervailing duty applies to goods that have benefited from government