**Abstract**
One of the most challenging issues facing daily-use ceramics companies at this year’s China Fair is the persistent issue of “anti-dumping.†Since 2012, a wave of anti-dumping investigations has swept across several countries, starting with the European Union and followed by Mexico, Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Brazil. These measures have placed Chinese ceramic manufacturers in a difficult position, creating what many call an “anti-dumping encirclement.†In response, some leading companies, such as Shandong Yinfeng Co., Ltd., have actively engaged with the EU to challenge these tariffs. According to reports, if the anti-dumping duties are lifted or reduced, it could lead to a significant reshuffle within the industry, but for large brand companies with strong export plans, this could also bring new opportunities.
The EU imposed anti-dumping duties as high as 58.8% on Chinese daily-use ceramics. In February 2012, the EU launched an anti-dumping investigation, and by the end of the year, over 2,000 Chinese companies were subjected to temporary duties ranging from 17.6% to 58.8%, which lasted for six months. On May 15 this year, the EU will vote on whether to extend these tariffs for up to five years. This decision carries major implications for the entire sector.
In addition to the EU, other countries have also taken action. In August 2023, Mexico filed an anti-dumping case involving $45 million worth of Chinese ceramics. Later that month, Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan proposed similar investigations to protect their domestic industries. In December 2023, Brazil also announced an anti-dumping inquiry into Chinese tableware products, with sampling companies identified in January this year. As a result, Chinese daily-use ceramics companies now find themselves caught in a growing global anti-dumping campaign.
Beyond tariffs, international retailers are increasingly imposing technical standards and social responsibility requirements, such as BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative), which add to the cost and complexity of exporting. These factors are making it more difficult for smaller producers to compete.
European orders have become scarce. Shandong Yinfeng, one of the largest daily-use ceramics producers in China, reported that before October last year, some European importers rushed to place orders due to concerns about potential tax changes, leading to a surge in exports. However, after the imposition of the temporary anti-dumping duty, orders from Europe have significantly declined.
If the anti-dumping duties are formally extended after the six-month trial period, it may benefit larger, well-established companies like Yinfeng. According to Zhang Bin from Yinfeng’s Import and Export Department, if the duties are officially applied, they would be passed on to the importers. If importers refuse to accept the increased costs, they might turn to alternative markets such as Bangladesh, Thailand, or Vietnam. However, given China’s dominant role in the daily-use ceramics industry, it remains a key production base for many international buyers.
Yinfeng, which has been proactive in responding to the EU’s anti-dumping measures, currently pays the minimum tax rate of 17.6%. Compared to the average 26.6% tax rate among its competitors, Yinfeng holds a clear advantage. While some smaller factories are struggling, the enforcement of anti-dumping duties could help filter out less competitive players.
Despite this advantage, Yinfeng is not complacent. According to internal reports, European markets account for 40% of Yinfeng’s total exports. The company is also expanding into new markets, including Russian and Middle Eastern retail chains, aiming to diversify its customer base and create new growth opportunities.
China’s daily-use ceramics industry is now facing a tough global environment, with anti-dumping measures creating both challenges and opportunities. If the anti-dumping duties are lifted, it could trigger a major restructuring in the sector, reshaping the competitive landscape for years to come.
PVC Water Supply Pipe,plastic pvc water pipe,pvc water pipe,1 inch pvc water pipe
Zhengzhou guan hao yong International Trade Co., , https://www.homepipes.com