BEIJING (Realist English). China announced on Sunday the imposition of anti-dumping duties of up to 74.9% on imports of POM (polyoxymethylene) copolymers, a type of high-performance engineering plastic, from the United States, European Union, Japan, and Taiwan.
The decision concludes a trade investigation launched in May 2024, shortly after the United States sharply increased tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, semiconductors, and other key exports. According to China’s Ministry of Commerce, the probe determined that POM copolymers were being dumped into the Chinese market, causing material harm to domestic producers.
POM copolymers are commonly used in automotive components, electronic devices, and medical equipment, and are valued for their ability to partially replace metals like copper and zinc.
In January 2025, Beijing imposed preliminary anti-dumping measures in the form of deposit requirements. Sunday’s final announcement confirms the following definitive duties:
- United States: Up to 74.9%, the highest rate among the targeted jurisdictions
- European Union: Duties set at 34.5%
- Japan: General tariff of 35.5%, with a reduced rate of 24.5% for Asahi Kasei Corp
- Taiwan: General rate of 32.6%, with lower duties for specific firms — 4% for Formosa Plastics, and 3.8% for Polyplastics Taiwan
The tariffs signal heightened trade friction between Beijing and several of its major trading partners, particularly the United States, as both countries continue to impose sector-specific penalties in response to perceived unfair trade practices.
However, there have been signs of tentative easing in broader U.S.–China trade tensions. On Monday, both sides agreed to mutual tariff reductions under a 90-day truce, raising hopes of a negotiated path forward. Chinese state media outlet Global Times on Friday called for the agreement to be extended.
Meanwhile, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) bloc, following its latest meeting in South Korea, issued a communique warning of “fundamental challenges” facing the global trading system, citing persistent protectionism and weakening confidence in multilateral trade frameworks.
Beijing’s targeted tariffs on POM copolymers represent both retaliation and strategic leverage, hitting industries where Western manufacturers remain competitive. As the U.S.–China trade rivalry continues to evolve, sectoral tariffs like these may become standard tools in a long-term regulatory chess match, rather than short-term negotiating tactics. The broader question is whether global supply chains can absorb these shocks without fragmenting into rival economic blocs.
