This research examines
the WTO Anti-Dumping Agreement and relevant cases concerning the ‘domestic
industry’ definition in Article 4.1. It then empirically analyses how the Korea
Trade Commission (KTC) applies this concept in its anti-dumping investigations.
The WTO Agreement and disputed cases grant investigating authorities discretion
in defining the domestic industry. The KTC likewise exercises this discretion
in determining the scope of the domestic industry and interpreting relevant
provisions for excluding producers. However, this study identifies
inconsistencies in the KTC’s interpretation of the domestic industry,
particularly regarding industry representativeness. It also highlights the lack
of consistent standards in this interpretation. This research reveals that
while flexibility is permitted in defining the domestic industry, there are
concerns about the consistency and clarity of the KTC’s approach. This
ambiguity in interpretation and application of standards raises questions about
the effectiveness and fairness of KTC’s current approach in representing
domestic industries in anti-dumping investigations.