Adipic Acid: EU Launches Anti-Dumping Investigation into Chinese Adipic Acid Imports

March 21, 2025

The European Commission has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into adipic acid imports from China, announced on March 14, 2025. The probe follows a complaint lodged on January 28, 2025, by European chemical firms Lanxess Deutschland GmbH (Germany) and Radici Chimica S.p.A. (Italy), who allege that China’s market distortions are enabling the dumping of adipic acid in the EU, harming local producers.

Interested parties have until late March to request a hearing and until mid-April to submit comments on the investigation. The Commission is examining dumping from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, and injury to the EU industry from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2024. A preliminary ruling is expected within seven to eight months.

China’s adipic acid exports to the EU reached 402,000 tons in 2024, a significant surge, with the country now holding nearly 70% of global production capacity at 4.1 million tons, driven by major players like Huafon Chongqing and Shenma Group. Key EU markets include the Netherlands, Germany, and Italy.

Meanwhile, BASF, a leading German chemical producer, plans to halt adipic acid production at its Ludwigshafen facility by the end of 2025, citing an oversupplied market and shifting dynamics, a decision announced earlier this year.

Sources: Bloominglobal, Futubull, EU Law Live

Polycarbonate: Covestro Expands U.S. Production Capacity

January 10, 2025

Covestro, the global leader in polycarbonate(PC), has announced plans to expand its production site in Hebron, Ohio, to meet growing demand in the American market. The project includes the construction of new production lines and infrastructure to manufacture customized polycarbonate compounds and blends, significantly increasing capacity in its Solutions & Specialties business.

The expansion will support the automotive, electronics, and healthcare industries with high-quality materials and strengthen Covestro's position in North America. It aligns with the company's strategy to enhance regional manufacturing and supply reliability. Construction is set to begin in 2025, with operations expected by late 2026.

www.covestro.com

ABS plastic: RCEP Region Fuels 67% of China’s ABS Exports

January 9, 2025

From January to November 2024, China’s ABS exports surged 55.4% to 196.1kts, driven by zero-tariff benefits under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement. RCEP and ASEAN countries accounted for 67% of exports, with Vietnam (41.5%), Thailand (12.6%), and Indonesia (6.8%) as top destinations. In contrast, demand from the EU and US remained subdued. Zero-tariff access has strengthened China’s export competitiveness, with 78% of exports to the top 20 partners enjoying zero tariffs. Looking ahead, ABS exports are projected to grow at a 15.4% CAGR, with Southeast Asia remaining a key market for China’s global trade expansion.

Source: Customs data and trade reports (January-November 2024).