On 7 March 2025, ITAC initiated an investigation into the alleged circumvention of anti-dumping duties on windscreens for vehicles, classifiable under tariff subheading 7007.21.20, imported from China for use as replacement glass. Additionally, an investigation into the alleged circumvention of the anti-dumping duties on windscreens through country hopping from the People’s Republic of China to Malaysia was initiated on the same day.
The cases were brought by Shatterprufe, a division of PG Group (Proprietary) Limited, a key windscreen producer in the SACU region, following concerns that importers are misclassifying the products under tariff heading 8708.22 and country hopping to avoid anti-dumping duties.
The product misclassification is allegedly done by attaching non-functional connecting wires or connectors, which can be removed before installation, allowing classification under HS 8708.22.10. In line with Regulation 60.2(a)(iii) and 60.2(b), such practices—incorrect product classification or minor alterations—constitute circumvention.
Regarding country hopping, Shatterprufe claims that Chinese exporters shifted the sourcing of windscreens from China to their related companies in Malaysia following the imposition of the anti-dumping duties.
If you export windscreens from Malaysia you need to respond or you will be deemed to be circumventing and duties will be applied unless you can show otherwise. Of course importers from Malaysia should pay attention for the same reason.