The European Commission has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into PET spunbond imports from China, following a formal complaint from EDANA, the international association for nonwovens and related industries.
EDANA welcomed the decision, emphasizing the urgent need to address the influx of unfairly priced Chinese imports. According to Jacques Prigneaux, EDANA’s Director of Market Analysis & Economic Affairs, the EU PET spunbond sector is under severe pressure as Chinese producers have rapidly expanded their presence in the EU since 2021, capturing a significant market share at the expense of EU manufacturers.
“We look forward to rapid registration of imports and the possibility of retroactive anti-dumping measures,” Prigneaux stated.
PET spunbond, a polyester-based nonwoven, is widely used as a carrier layer in bituminous membranes, playing a vital role in Europe’s building and construction sector, particularly in housing renovation and clean energy roofing aligned with the EU Green Deal.
According to complainants, low-priced imports have seriously damaged EU producers, underlining the necessity for trade defence tools. EDANA confirmed its full support to the Commission throughout the probe.
Key Details of the Investigation:
- Duration: Up to 14 months.
- Provisional Measures: Possible within 8 months.
- Definitive Duties: May be imposed before the 14-month deadline.
- Retroactive Measures: Possible if the Commission orders registration of imports.