The European Commission's Directorate-General for Trade has confirmed it will initiate a trade protection investigation into tyres imported from China starting 20 May 2025. The focus will be on passenger car and light truck tyres, specifically under HS code 40111000, which accounted for over 20% of China's total tyre exports to the EU in 2024.
The investigation will examine potential dumping practices and government subsidies that may have distorted fair competition. While the investigation is still in its preliminary phase, anti-dumping and countervailing duty procedures are expected to follow once a formal case is filed.
Customs data from 2024 highlights China’s strong export footprint in the EU market for the targeted tyre segment. Industry observers note that any future duties imposed by the European Commission could significantly disrupt trade volumes and pricing structures, impacting manufacturers and suppliers across the value chain.
In response, the China Rubber Industry Association (CRIA) issued a statement affirming its readiness to coordinate with affected companies and initiate legal and procedural responses if a case is filed.
Trade lawyers familiar with EU procedures have advised Chinese exporters to prepare for a tight schedule following the case filing. Companies will typically have seven days to register as interested parties and submit documentation, including sampling data and comments.
Exporters are urged to avoid price undercutting in both domestic and overseas markets and to refrain from pushing shipments to the EU during the investigation window. A surge in export volumes during the preliminary ruling period could trigger changes in the European Commission’s injury calculations, potentially increasing the duties levied.
CRIA President Xu Wenying has called for industry calm and unity, urging manufacturers to maintain focus while the association liaises with China’s Ministry of Commerce on protective measures.
Tagged with: EU trade investigation, Chinese tyres, anti-dumping, countervailing duties, CRIA, tyre exports, passenger car tyres, light truck tyres, 40111000, tyre trade tensions
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