EU Chemicals Sector Pushes for Safeguard Measures as Import Pressure Intensifies

France and Italy, with Germany reportedly considering support, have called for the European Commission to examine stronger trade-protection measures in response to increasing import pressure on the European chemicals and plastics industries.

Products under discussion reportedly include PET, epoxy resins and glass fibres, against a wider background of high energy costs, weak European demand and growing international competition.

Of particular legal interest is the possibility of resorting to safeguard measures, rather than relying exclusively on anti-dumping measures. Safeguards do not depend upon a finding that foreign exporters are engaging in dumping. Instead, their legal framework focuses on increased imports and the resulting serious injury, or threat thereof, to the domestic industry.

France and Italy, with Germany reportedly considering support, have called for the European Commission to examine stronger trade-protection measures in response to increasing import pressure on the European chemicals and plastics industries.

Products under discussion reportedly include PET, epoxy resins and glass fibers, against a wider background of high energy costs, weak European demand and growing international competition.

Of particular legal interest is the possibility of resorting to safeguard measures, rather than relying exclusively on anti-dumping measures. Safeguards do not depend upon a finding that foreign exporters are engaging in dumping. Instead, their legal framework focuses on increased imports and the resulting serious injury, or threat thereof, to the domestic industry.