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Global Commodity Intelligence

Q2 2025 | APRIL - JUNE

Understanding the Proposed Anti-Dumping Duty on PCB Imports from China PR and Hong Kong

Implications for the Supply Chain

India's Department of Commerce, through its Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), recently notified regarding an anti-dumping investigation on imports of Printed Circuit Boards (PCB) from China PR and Hong Kong. This move, potentially impacting the electronics manufacturing sector, aims to safeguard domestic industries against unfairly traded imports and maintain a fair market environment.

The DGTR recommended imposing anti-dumping duties on PCB imports from China or Hong Kong for five years. The proposed duty, recommended by DGTR, would levy charges on PCB imports from China PR and Hong Kong for five years. The scope excludes certain categories, such as PCBs with more than six layers (those used in mobile phone applications), populated PCBs of all sizes, and PCBs with embedded copper coins, among others.

Stakeholders in the supply chain must understand the scope and implications of this proposed anti-dumping duty. Here's what you need to know:

1. Scope of Investigation: The investigation focuses on PCB imports from China PR and Hong Kong. Certain categories of PCBs are excluded from this inquiry, including those with more than six layers, PCBs for mobile phone applications, and several others, as outlined in the notification.

2. Proposed Duty Rates: The proposed anti-dumping duty rates vary depending on the manufacturer and can range from 0% to 75.72% of the Cost Insurance Freight (CIF) value. Most PCB manufacturers fall under the 30% duty category.

3. Business Impact: While higher layer count and advanced technology PCB manufacturers may remain unaffected, businesses exporting lower layer count and low technology PCBs from China PR or Hong Kong could face increased costs and competitive challenges. This could impact supply chain dynamics and cost structures for electronics manufacturers.

4. Exclusion and Inclusion Criteria: Businesses need to review the exclusion and inclusion criteria outlined in the investigation to determine whether their products fall within the scope of the proposed anti-dumping duty. These products are currently excluded:

PCBs with more than six layers
PCBs for use in mobile phone applications
Populated PCBs of all sizes
PCBs with embedded copper coin
Inlay PCBs
“Plating Over Filled Via” (POFV) PCBs or Via-in-Pad PCBs
High-Density Interconnect (HDI) PCBs
Rigid-Flex PCBs
Packaging substrates/IC packaging

5. Duration and Review: If the anti-dumping ruling is implemented, it will remain in effect for five years from the date of notification. However, the Ministry of Finance is expected to announce its final decision by the end of March 2024.

Actionable Recommendations

In response to these developments, stakeholders in the supply chain, including electronics manufacturers, PCB suppliers, and component distributors, should closely monitor the situation and assess potential impacts on their operations. Proactive measures may include diversifying sourcing strategies, exploring alternative suppliers, and optimizing supply chain logistics to mitigate adverse effects.

Collaboration and communication among supply chain partners are essential to navigate these changes effectively and ensure business continuity. By staying informed and adaptable, businesses can address challenges posed by the proposed anti-dumping duty and maintain resilience in the ever-evolving landscape of global trade regulations.

The proposed anti-dumping duty on PCB imports from China PR and Hong Kong underscores the importance of vigilance and adaptability in the supply chain. By understanding the implications and taking proactive measures, businesses can navigate regulatory changes and safeguard their operations in the face of evolving trade dynamics.