India is investigating South Korean electronics giants LG Electronics and Samsung over allegations that they paid lower-than-applicable import duties on OLED display components used in premium televisions, according to sources cited by Reuters. The investigation centres on imported OLED glass screens known as open cells, for which Indian authorities reportedly believe a 15% duty should apply, rather than the concessional 5% rate claimed by the companies. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence has reportedly questioned Samsung officials at its India headquarters, while LG has responded to written queries and made an unspecified voluntary deposit against any potential additional duty. The companies dispute the authorities’ interpretation, with sources saying they consider OLED to be an advanced form of LED technology that should qualify for the same concessional tariff treatment. Samsung said it is reviewing the matter, cooperating with authorities and remains committed to complying with Indian laws, while LG has submitted its response to the authorities. The investigation comes as both companies expand their premium television businesses in India, where OLED remains a relatively small but growing segment of the overall TV market. Industry groups are separately lobbying the government to extend the 5% concessional duty regime to OLED display components, arguing that the current tariff structure creates higher input and manufacturing costs and could hinder the development of advanced display technology in India. The case highlights ongoing questions around tariff classification, import costs and efforts to expand domestic electronics manufacturing under the Make in India initiative.
India Reviews Duty Classification of OLED Parts Imported by LG, Samsung
