Product description – The product under consideration (PUC) is “Methyl Acetoacetate”. It is also known as MAA/MAAE/AAME and is a Diketene based Ester or aceto-acetate. The chemical formula of MAA is C5H8O3 and at 99% purity, it is a clear liquid with a colourless appearance.
HS Codes – The product is classified under customs classification 29183040. However, the product has been imported under various other codes such as 29146990, 29153910, 29153940, 29153990, 29183090, 29331990, 29410090 and 29189900. The customs classification is indicative only and in no way binding on the scope of the present investigation.
Uses – Methyl Acetoacetate finds uses in Pharmaceutical Industry, Agrochemical Industry, Polymer Industry, as a reactant in other industries. It is also used as a flavouring agent and in colourants.
Countries involved – China PR
Applicant – Laxmi Organics Industries Limited
Period of investigation – April 2019 to March 2020.
Injury period – April 2016 to March 2017, April 2017 to March 2018, April 2018 to March 2019 and the period of investigation.
Past investigations involving the product – The original anti-dumping investigation was initiated by the Authority in 2015 concerning imports of Methyl Acetoacetate from China PR and USA. The Authority notified final findings on 1st April 2016 recommending definitive antidumping duty which were imposed by Ministry of Finance vide Notification No. 22/2016-Customs (ADD) dated 31st May 2016. The said duties are said to expire on 30th May 2021.
Facts of the present case – The present application was seeking extension of duties imposed on imports of Methyl Acetoacetate from China PR. The Applicant has not sought extension of anti-dumping duties on imports of subject goods from USA as there was no evidence of likelihood of dumping and injury from USA. The applicants submitted that there is likelihood of continuation or recurrence of dumping and injury to the domestic industry in the event of cessation of antidumping duties. The DGTR has found sufficient prima facie evidence of likelihood of dumping and injury in the event of expiry of duty warranting initiation of investigation.
Consumer sector – The consumers of the product would primarily be Pharmaceutical Industry, Agrochemical Industry, Polymer Industry.