Anti-Dumping Duty on Toluene Di-Isocyanate (TDI) 80:20
The Government of India, Ministry of Finance (Department of Revenue), through Notification No. 03/2026-Customs (ADD) dated 10th February 2026, has continued the imposition of Anti-Dumping Duty (ADD) on imports of Toluene Di-Isocyanate (TDI) having isomer content in the ratio of 80:20, falling under tariff item 2929 10 20 of the First Schedule to the Customs Tariff Act, 1975.
This notification has been issued following the final findings of the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), which concluded that there is a likelihood of continuation of dumping and consequent injury to the domestic industry if the existing duty were allowed to lapse.
Legal Framework
The Anti-Dumping Duty has been imposed under:
- Section 9A (1) and (5) of the Customs Tariff Act, 1975
- Rules 18, 20 and 23 of the Customs Tariff (Identification, Assessment and Collection of Anti-Dumping Duty on Dumped Articles and for Determination of Injury) Rules, 1995
This notification supersedes Notification No. 28/2021-Customs (ADD), dated 27th April 2021, except for actions already undertaken under the earlier notification.
Scope of the Subject Goods
The subject goods covered under this notification are:
'Toluene Di-Isocyanate (TDI) having isomer content in the ratio of 80:20.'
Important clarification:
- Only the 80:20 isomer grade (2,4-TDI : 2,6-TDI) is covered.
- All other grades of TDI are outside the scope of this notification.
- Customs classification is indicative and not binding on the scope.
Countries Covered
The Anti-Dumping Duty applies to imports originating in or exported from:
- The European Union
- Saudi Arabia
Producers and ADD Rates
The Anti-Dumping Duty is imposed at specific rates (in US$ per Metric Tonne) depending on the producer/exporter:
European Union
- Covestro Deutschland AG - USD 221.04 per MT
- BorsodChem Zrt - USD 102.05 per MT
- Any other producer - USD 264.96 per MT
- Exports from EU via other countries - USD 264.96 per MT
Saudi Arabia
- Sadara Chemical Company - USD 217.55 per MT
- Any other producer - USD 344.33 per MT
- Exports via third countries - USD 344.33 per MT
Duration and Payment
- The ADD shall remain in force for five years from the date of publication in the Official Gazette, unless revoked, superseded, or amended earlier.
- The duty shall be payable in Indian currency.
- The applicable exchange rate shall be the rate notified under Section 14 of the Customs Act, 1962.
- The relevant date for exchange rate determination shall be the date of presentation of the Bill of Entry under Section 46 of the Customs Act, 1962.
Industrial Importance of TDI 80:20
1. Role in Polyurethane Industry
TDI 80:20 is a key raw material used in manufacturing flexible polyurethane foam, which is extensively used in:
- Furniture (mattresses, sofas, cushions)
- Automotive seating
- Office chairs
- Packaging foam
This segment accounts for the majority of TDI consumption globally.
2. Automotive Sector
Used in:
- Seat cushioning
- Headrests
- Interior padding
- Acoustic insulation
TDI-based polyurethane provides lightweight durability and comfort.
3. Footwear Industry
- PU soles
- Sports footwear cushioning
- Safety shoes
Offers flexibility, abrasion resistance, and shock absorption.
4. Adhesives, Sealants and Coatings
TDI is used in:
- Industrial adhesives
- Construction sealants
- Protective coatings
- Wood and floor finishes
These products provide chemical resistance, durability, and strong bonding properties.
5. Construction and Insulation
Applications include:
- Thermal insulation
- Expansion foams
- Waterproofing systems
These contribute to improved energy efficiency and structural protection.
Significance of Anti-Dumping Duty (ADD)
The continuation of ADD ensures:
- Protection of domestic manufacturers from unfairly priced imports.
- Prevention of market distortion due to dumping.
- Stability in domestic pricing.
- Safeguarding of employment and investments in India's chemical industry.
- Sustainable growth of downstream industries.
While TDI is essential for several industries, maintaining fair trade practices ensures that domestic production remains viable without harming user industries through predatory pricing practices.
Conclusion
Notification No. 03/2026-Customs (ADD) reflects the Government of India's commitment to ensuring fair trade practices in the chemical sector. TDI 80:20 remains a critical industrial input across furniture, automotive, footwear, construction, and coatings industries.
The continued imposition of Anti-Dumping Duty balances the need to protect domestic producers while ensuring steady supply for downstream industries, thereby supporting overall industrial and economic stability.


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