Anti-dumping investigation into Chinese polyether polyols
The European Commission has officially initiated an anti-dumping investigation into imports of certain polyether polyols originating in the People’s Republic of China, following a complaint submitted by several major European producers, including BASF, Covestro, PCC Rokita, Shell and Chimcomplex. The investigation was announced through a Notice of Initiation published in the Official Journal of the European Union on 30 June 2026.
Polyether polyols are a key raw material in the production of flexible polyurethane foams used in mattresses, upholstered furniture and numerous comfort applications, making this investigation particularly relevant for companies throughout the bedding and comfort value chain.
Scope of the investigation
The investigation covers certain pure polyether polyols, as well as blends and formulations containing polyether polyols. Polyethylene glycols (PEGs) are explicitly excluded from the scope. The products concerned are currently imported under CN code ex 3907 29 20.
According to the complainants, imports from China are allegedly being sold on the EU market at dumped prices, causing material injury to the European polyols industry. The complaint also alleges significant distortions affecting production costs in China, including distortions related to raw materials, energy, financing and other production factors.
Investigation timeline
The Commission will investigate:
- Dumping: covering the period from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026;
- Injury assessment: examining market developments from 1 January 2022 through the end of the investigation period.
The investigation is expected to be concluded within one year, and no later than 14 months after publication of the Notice. Should the Commission consider that sufficient evidence exists, provisional anti-dumping measures may be introduced within seven to eight months.
Possible implications for the market
As part of the proceeding, the Commission also intends to require customs authorities to register imports of the products concerned from China at an early stage of the investigation. This registration could allow any definitive anti-dumping duties, if ultimately imposed, to be collected retroactively on registered imports.
While the outcome of the investigation remains uncertain, the case has the potential to influence pricing, sourcing strategies and supply chain dynamics across industries relying on polyurethane raw materials, including the bedding and comfort sector.
EBIA will continue to monitor developments
Given the strategic importance of polyether polyols for the European bedding industry, EBIA will continue to closely monitor the progress of the investigation and keep members informed of any significant developments, including any provisional or definitive measures adopted by the European Commission.