DGS initiates safeguard duty probe on spandex imports

The Directorate General of Safeguards has initiated probe on imports of bare elastomeric filament yarn, known as spandex, ahead of a decision on imposing safeguard duty on its imports.

Spandex or elastane is used in various applications such as denim jeans, sportswear, T-shirts, suitings, socks and other garments. Spandex is a synthetic fibre known for its exceptional elasticity. It is strong, but less durable than its major non-synthetic competitor, natural latex.

The DGS initiated the probe on a petition filed by Indorama Industries seeking imposition of safeguard duty on spandex imports. The company claims to be the sole producer of bare elastomeric filament yarn in the country.

Indorama Industries had sought imposition of safeguard duty on its imports for a period of three years. The company has also made a case for imposition of provisional safeguards duty.

Bare elastomeric filament yarn is imported into the country from a number of countries, primarily from Vietnam, South Korea, China, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand.