Borosil Renewables, India’s first solar glass manufacturer, is urging the government to impose an anti-dumping duty on solar glass imports, particularly from China, to address concerns over unfair pricing practices. While the government has already implemented measures such as customs duties and the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) to support domestic manufacturers, Borosil’s Executive Chairman, Pradeep Kheruka, believes further action is needed as the demand for solar glass exceeds current supply levels.
“We are requesting an additional anti-dumping duty on solar glass imports, alongside the existing customs duties, to protect local industries from artificially low prices resulting from dumping,” said Kheruka. He highlighted that while Indian manufacturers are more efficient, Chinese manufacturers benefit from significant subsidies, giving them a competitive advantage. Kheruka emphasized the need for a Minimum Import Price (MIP) to counteract these practices.
He pointed out that after India’s 10% customs duty was implemented in July, Chinese exporters reduced their prices to India by 15%, underscoring the need for the MIP to curb such tactics. According to Kheruka, the government deems ₹56,000 per tonne as a fair price for solar glass, whereas imports from China are priced as low as ₹28,000 per tonne.
China’s reduction in export rebates on solar modules and components, set to begin on December 1, is expected to cause a temporary rise in electricity tariffs in India. The rebate for solar modules will decrease from 13% to 9%, and rebates on ancillary items such as aluminium and copper wires will be eliminated.
Kheruka noted that India’s solar module market is growing rapidly, with capacity increasing from 15 GW to 75 GW and an additional 75 GW planned. However, 50 GW of projects are currently on hold due to the uncompetitive pricing of domestic solar glass. Despite these challenges, Borosil’s market capitalisation has risen to ₹5,773 crore, reflecting a 6% increase in its shares over the past year.
Borosil Renewables Ltd. is a pioneering Indian manufacturer of solar glass, catering to the rapidly growing renewable energy sector. The company is the first in India to manufacture solar glass, playing a crucial role in the production of photovoltaic (PV) modules for solar energy applications.
With a focus on high-quality, durable, and efficient glass for solar panels, Borosil Renewables supports India’s push toward energy independence and sustainability. The company operates in a competitive landscape, advocating for fair pricing and policy support, including anti-dumping measures, to protect local industries from below-cost imports, especially from China. With a strong market presence, Borosil is committed to advancing India’s renewable energy goals by ensuring a reliable supply of solar glass for the growing domestic and international demand for solar energy solutions.
