Japan has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into hot-dip galvanized steel imports from China and South Korea, following a petition filed by domestic steel producers, including Nippon Steel and Kobe Steel. The petitioners allege that the influx of cheaper imports has led to a decline in domestic demand and forced them to reduce prices. Hot-dip galvanized steel, commonly used in construction for outdoor applications, is the focus of this probe. The investigation excludes imports from Hong Kong and Macau.
The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Ministry of Finance plan to complete the investigation within a year. They will assess whether the imports are being sold at unfairly low prices and if such practices have caused material injury to the domestic industry. Based on the findings, the Japanese government will decide whether to impose anti-dumping duties on the products under investigation.
Tadashi Imai, chairman of the Japan Iron and Steel Federation and president of Nippon Steel, emphasized that the investigation is conducted fairly and independently in line with World Trade Organization (WTO) rules to address unfair import practices. He also warned that increasing global protectionism could expose Japan to harmful, low-cost steel imports that threaten domestic steel manufacturing.
This move by Japan reflects a broader trend in the region, where countries are taking protective measures against what they perceive as unfair trade practices in the steel industry. For instance, in February 2025, South Korea imposed provisional tariffs of up to 38% on Chinese steel plates after an investigation into alleged dumping.
The Japanese government’s decision to launch this anti-dumping probe underscores its commitment to safeguarding domestic industries from unfair trade practices and ensuring a level playing field in the global market.
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