PMO asks Commerce Ministry to suggest steps to curb Chinese imports

Amid border tension along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), India is mulling measures to curb imports from China, with the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) seeking suggestions from the Commerce Ministry for the same. 

According to sources, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office has asked the Commerce Ministry to list steps to curb Chinese imports. 

This comes as the government plans to put pressure on China on all fronts, including diplomatic and economic, following the clash in Galwan Valley where India lost 20 soldiers last month. 

Sources said the PMO has asked the Commerce Ministry to suggest steps through which imports from China can be reduced. 

The PMO is also seeking a review of free trade agreement (FTA) with other countries to stop the dumping of cheap goods. The government is likely to take strict steps to reduce imports from many more countries in the days to come to further strengthen the "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-Reliant India) campaign.

It is possible in the near future that the government may take steps to reduce imports from ASEAN countries, including South Korea, Malaysia and Singapore. 

The PMO has also sought product-wise details of cheap imports and comparison with the domestic prices from all sectors. It is also seeking details of tax disadvantages, if any, when it comes to cheap imports. 

The multi-pronged strategy is aimed at pressuring China from all directions to punish its aggression in eastern Ladakh. Last month, the government banned 59 Chinese apps, including TikTok and Wechat, which are "prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order.