As bauxite loses traction, Fimi seeks waiver of 15% duty on exports

As exports of non-plant grade bauxite from the country are losing traction in the international market, Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (Fimi) has sought exemption of 15 per cent duty levied on export shipments.

Indian bauxite was losing edge in seaborne trade due to the high duty. By contrast, Australia, Brazil and Malaysia were dominant players since they levied no duty while another leading producer-cum-exporter Guinea imposed a measly duty of 0.75 per cent on bauxite exports. 

The mineral lobby body has appealed to the Union finance ministry to exempt bauxite exports from duties. This intervention by the government will