The European Union has announced the introduction of provisional anti-dumping measures for imports of glass fibre yarns from China. Glass Fibre Europe welcomes this decisive step, which is vital for preserving the European industry.
Glass fibre yarns are the base for numerous applications of lightweight material solutions in key sectors of our economy, including construction, transport, energy, industrial, aerospace, military and many more. Glass fibre production is key to this 21st century glass-based technology value chain, which is vital to the transition to a resilient carbon-neutral economy.
Glass Fibre Europe requested the initiation of an anti-dumping investigation in response to growing evidence that Chinese producers compete unfairly in the EU market. The complaint showcased that these imports are heavily dumped and cause injury to the EU industry with undercutting prices.
Following the initiation of the anti-dumping investigation by the European Commission on 17 February 2024, imports of glass fibre yarn originating from China have continued to increase. Speaking on behalf of Glass Fibre Europe, Cédric Janssens, Secretary General, expressed his appreciation for the EU’s decision to impose provisional anti-dumping measures, stating, “Following the Notice of Initiation, which alerted Chinese exporters and their EU importers of serious dumping allegations, these players began stockpiling Chinese glass fibre yarns in the EU. This practice has exacerbated the difficulties faced by the EU industry, making it imperative to implement provisional measures to protect fair competition while the investigation is ongoing.”.
While the introduction of these provisional measures is a significant milestone, Glass Fibre Europe emphasizes the urgent need for the European Commission to confirm the measures and take further steps to fully restore a level playing field with Chinese companies. “Europe has a strong base of glass fibre manufacturers operating state-of-the-art facilities, and our producers are willing to ramp up production to meet the needs of downstream industries and ensure the continued reliable availability of glass fibre products across Europe. The association and its members stand united in supporting the EU’s effort to uphold fair trade practices, welcome competition from fairly trade imports from outside the EU, and will continue to work closely with policy makers and other stakeholders to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of the glass fibre industry and its value chain”, concluded Cédric Janssens.
