China imposes hefty anti-dumping duties on imported engineering plastics

In response to global trade tensions, China has instituted significant anti-dumping duties on imports of POM copolymers, a specific type of engineering plastic. This decision, made public on May 18, 2025, follows an investigation initiated in May 2024, which determined that dumping practices by foreign manufacturers were taking place. The highest duties of 74.9% apply to imports from the United States, while the European Union faces duties of 34.5%. Japan is also affected by duties of 35.5%, except for the company Asahi Kasei Corp, which has a lower rate of 24.5%. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce indicated that POM copolymers are crucial for various applications in industries such as automotive, electronics, and medical equipment, where they serve to partially replace metals such as copper and zinc. This move from China is perceived as a retaliatory action, occurring shortly after the U.S. raised tariffs on a range of Chinese imports including electric vehicles and computer chips. The implementation of these duties appears strategically timed to coincide with recent developments in U.S.-China trade relations, as the two countries have expressed intentions to negotiate a truce. Initial investigations leading to this announcement were described by the Chinese Ministry as having concluded that foreign companies engaged in dumping practices, which involved selling products below fair market value. Preliminary anti-dumping measures had already been imposed as of January 24, 2025, indicating a proactive approach from Chinese authorities to protect their domestic industries. The backdrop of this development reflects a larger confrontation in global trade dynamics, particularly between the U.S. and China. While there are hopes that the trade war could be easing, particularly following discussions to reduce reciprocal tariffs during a recent meeting, the imposition of these anti-dumping duties signals ongoing tensions. Stakeholders from both nations are likely to be monitoring the situation closely, as trade relations continue to evolve amidst the complex landscape of international commerce.