Europe imposes duty on glass fiber from China

GlassFibreEurope, the European Glass Fibre Producers Association, announced on Sept. 16 that the European Commission has elected to impose a provisional anti-dumping duty of up to 43.6 percent on glass fiber imports from China.

The decision follows the first nine months of the investigation into whether imports of glass fiber reinforcements from China violated the EU anti-dumping rules. The provisional duty will apply until a possible decision on definitive measures will be taken by the Member States of the European Union.

Since 2004, says GlassFibreEurope, the European Industry experienced a massive increase in the market share held by Chinese producers and suffered from significant price undercutting, seriously damaging profitability, ability to invest and employment in the sector.

In December 2009 the European Commission started to investigate allegations of dumping of glass fiber rovings, chopped strands, yarns and mats after these practices were brought to its attention by GlassFibreEurope.

In accordance with the EU Anti-dumping Regulation, the Commission has carried out a thorough and detailed investigation, examining and verifying detailed trade statistics and the production and accounts of several European producers, listening to end users’ concerns and visiting several Chinese producers.

“We are appreciative of the European Commission’s very thorough investigation and for imposing the provisional duties,” said Dr. Axel Jorns, secretary general of GlassFibreEurope.