The ministry said this comes after a local producer, Perusahaan Sadur Timah Malaysia (Perstima) Bhd, filed a petition, Bernama reported.

It said Perstima alleged that these imports were sold at significantly lower prices than in their home countries.

“In accordance with the Act and the regulations, a preliminary determination will be made within 120 days from the date of initiation,” it said in a statement.

“If the preliminary determination is affirmative, the government will impose a provisional anti-dumping duty at a rate necessary to prevent further injury to the domestic industry.”

The ministry said it will distribute questionnaires and documents to interested parties, including importers, foreign exporters or producers of the subject merchandise in the named countries, trade associations and the governments of the countries involved.

Those wanting to take part must request for the questionnaires by Aug 29 and submit their views, responses and supporting evidence by Sept 13.

“In the event that interested parties fail to provide the necessary information or submit inadequate information and views within the specified time limit, the government may base its preliminary determination on the available facts,” it said.