concerns-over-chinese-imports-and-visas-in-india

Indian national security planners and financial investigating agencies have uncovered serious irregularities in the operations of Chinese companies operating in India, according to sources familiar with the matter.

 

The concerns range from improper documentation for visas to evading local taxes and bypassing scrutiny by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

 

Officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, highlighted significant misuse of the e-visa scheme before 2020, with some Chinese nationals overstaying without visa renewals and venturing into sensitive border states such as Arunachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir.

 

Three ministries are actively addressing these issues, noting instances where Chinese companies mis-declared visa categories. For example, firms applied for business visas instead of employment visas required for industrial unit installations and commissions.

 

Officials expressed worry over the massive influx of Chinese furniture, lighting, fixtures, and sanitaryware, which adversely affects local industries.

 

They pointed out a concerning trend where Chinese firms exploit "Make in India" benefits by importing or sourcing up to 80% of parts from China, despite claiming local manufacturing.

 

This issue persists even among Chinese firms with nearly two decades of operation in India.

 

The officials refrained from disclosing specific company names until formal complaints were filed and actions initiated.

 

Quality concerns also surfaced regarding Chinese products, often cheaper but of inferior quality compared to Indian counterparts.

 

Following the Galwan clash in June 2020, the Union Commerce Ministry implemented quality control orders (QCOs) to uphold standards.

 

In 2018, India issued 47,000 business visas and 150,000 e-visas to Chinese entities. The following year saw 19,000 business visas and a significant rise to 200,000 e-visas.

 

Post-Covid, the government tightened visa regulations, issuing only 2,500 business visas and 3,000 e-visas to Chinese entities in 2023-24.

 

Officials maintained that visa issuances are unlikely to increase until issues like those highlighted are resolved, including the boundary disputes in East Ladakh since the 2017 Doklam incident.