While hearing a matter in the state High Court, Tuesday, the bench observed: “It does not matter whether you hate or love China. You cannot ignore it.” The matter pertained to a petition filed by Qrex Flex Pvt Ltd against the revocation of the decision of levying anti-dumping duty on PVC flex films imported from China. The bench comprised Justice Nisha Thakore and Justice J.B. Pardiwala.
The central government, in August 2016, imposed anti-dumping duty on the import of PVC flex films from China to protect local industries. Five years later, in August 2021, when the deadline was nearing, the local body requested the government to extend the ban. The Central government took cognisance and extended the ban in June 2021 for another six months. However, in October 2021, when the Director-General of Trade Remedies opined that the duty should be lifted, the government revoked it on Monday, one week before the deadline. Local traders complained to the Customs Excise and Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT) which as a result moved Gujarat High Court against the revocation. The High Court suggested that the tribunal should decide on the appeal. The court also sought the central government’s response and posted a further hearing on Thursday.
