China’s Ministry of Commerce announced on May 19th 2025 the imposition of anti-dumping duties of up to 74.9% on imports of polyoxymethylene copolymers (POM), an industrial plastic, from the United States, European Union, Japan and Taiwan. This decision follows a year-long investigation conducted starting May 2024 which revealed these imports were sold below fair market value causing significant harm to domestic industry in China. This news source provided by AOL +9 AOL +9 Tech in Asia +9 AOL +9 Tech in Asia +9
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POM copolymers, commonly referred to as polyformaldehyde plastics, are engineering plastics used extensively across industries including automobile parts manufacturing, electronics production, medical devices manufacturing and consumer products production due to their strength and durability. POLITICO’s South China Morning Post offered more details here and Reuters added five regions. For the full story see POLITICO’s Duty Breakdown by Region (scroll down for full list).
The newly implemented duties vary by country and company:
United States: Imports facing duties of up to 74.99% can be found in China Daily Asia, Reuters and POLITICO publications, respectively.
European Union: Shipments subject to a 34.5% duty are being assessed. POLITICO and Reuters also reported this news item as well as Philippine News Agency coverage of it.
Japan: Most imports incur a 35.5% duty rate; Asahi Kasei Corp is exempted with 24.5% duties instead.
Reuters POLITICO both recommend it.
Taiwan: General imports are subject to a 32.6% duty rate; Formosa Plastics and Polyplastics Taiwan are exempted from this tax with reduced rates of 4.1% and 3.8% respectively. [Ad Sale CPRJ (+1)].
These measures, effective as of May 19, 2025 and remaining in force until 2029, will remain in place.
Reuters | China Daily Asia
Context and Implications The anti-dumping investigation was initiated shortly after the U.S. increased tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, semiconductors, and other goods in early 2024. While both nations agreed to a 90-day truce to reduce reciprocal tariffs between themselves, these duties still demonstrate ongoing trade tensions. POLITICO | Reuters | South China Morning Post
China’s Ministry of Commerce stated that imports from these regions had caused severe harm to China’s domestic industry, so duties are being levied to restore fair competition and safeguard local manufacturers. Reuters +8
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Industry and Global Trade Implications
POM copolymers used in numerous industries – automotive, electronics and healthcare among them – will likely be affected by duties imposed upon imports of POM copolymers from China, potentially disrupting global supply chains and leading to higher costs for manufacturers relying on these imports.
Trade experts suggest this move could prompt affected countries to seek consultations under World Trade Organization (WTO) frameworks to settle the dispute. The situation exemplifies the complex relationship between global trade relations and domestic industry protection with international commitments.
As duties take effect, stakeholders across affected regions will closely follow their effect on trade flows and industry dynamics. The added complexity of international trade emphasizes the need for ongoing dialogue and cooperation to manage any disputes that arise as a result.
Note: Please keep in mind that this article reflects information available as of May 19, 2025.