**Abstract**
One of the most challenging issues for daily-use ceramics companies at this year’s China Fair is the term “anti-dumping.†Since 2012, a series of anti-dumping investigations have been launched by several countries, starting with the European Union and followed by Mexico, Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Brazil. These actions have placed Chinese daily-use ceramic manufacturers in what many call an “anti-dumping encirclement circle.â€
In response, Shandong Yinfeng Co., Ltd., one of the largest producers in China, has actively engaged in the EU’s anti-dumping process. According to Zhang Bin from Yinfeng's Import and Export Department, if the anti-dumping duties are lifted, it could lead to a major reshuffle in the industry. However, for large-scale export-oriented brands, this situation might also bring new opportunities.
The EU imposed a preliminary anti-dumping duty of up to 58.8% on Chinese ceramics in early 2012, targeting over 2,000 domestic companies. A temporary tax rate of 17.6% to 58.8% was applied for six months, and a final decision was expected in May 2023, potentially extending for up to five years.
Beyond the EU, other countries have also taken action. In August 2022, Mexico filed an anti-dumping case involving $45 million worth of products. Shortly after, Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan proposed similar measures to protect their domestic industries. In December 2022, Brazil also initiated an investigation into Chinese ceramic tableware, with sampling conducted in January 2023.
As a result, Chinese daily-use ceramics companies now face not only higher tariffs but also increasingly complex technical standards and social responsibility requirements, such as BSCI, which raise the costs of testing and certification for exporters.
At the China Trade Fair, Yinfeng’s staff acknowledged that the EU’s anti-dumping tax has had a short-term impact. Before October 2022, some European importers rushed to place orders, leading to a surge in exports. However, since the implementation of the temporary tax, European orders have significantly declined.
If the anti-dumping duties are formally extended after the six-month trial period, it could benefit larger, more competitive companies like Yinfeng. While smaller factories may struggle, the overall industry could see a natural consolidation. Yinfeng, having complied with the EU’s requirements, pays the lowest tax rate of 17.6%, giving it a clear advantage over competitors paying the average 26.6%.
Despite these challenges, Yinfeng is not complacent. With 40% of its exports going to Europe, the company is diversifying its markets, expanding into the U.S., Russia, and the Middle East. This strategy aims to reduce dependency on any single region and create new growth opportunities.
China’s daily-use ceramics sector is facing a tough environment, but it’s also an opportunity for stronger players to rise. If the anti-dumping duties are lifted, it could trigger a significant restructuring, but for those who adapt and innovate, the future remains promising.
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