EU launches anti-dumping probe into Vietnamese PET imports

According to a press release, the European Commission has launched an anti-dumping investigation into imports of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) from Vietnam, following a complaint by PET Europe on behalf of the EU industry. The complaint, submitted on April 9, 2025, alleges that Vietnamese PET is being sold in the EU at unfairly low prices, harming domestic producers.

The investigation targets PET classified under CN code 3907 61 00, specifically with a viscosity of 78 ml/g or higher. Evidence submitted suggests that export prices from Vietnam are significantly lower than domestic prices, leading to notable dumping margins.

According to the Commission, these underpriced imports have negatively affected the EU industry by cutting into market share and reducing sales, resulting in substantial financial strain. The investigation will cover the period from January 1 to December 31, 2024, while broader injury trends will be assessed from 2021 through 2024.

Exporters, importers, and other stakeholders have 37 days to submit comments and 15 days to request hearings. Vietnamese producers are urged to participate, as the findings may lead to the imposition of anti-dumping duties if deemed in the EU’s interest.

In mid-May, market sources indicated that the European Commission was preparing to launch an anti-dumping investigation into PET imports from both Türkiye and Vietnam. The recent announcement confirms the initiation of proceedings against Vietnam; however, no official announcement has been made regarding imports from Türkiye.

Vietnamese PET has increasingly filled the supply gap left by the EU’s imposition of anti-dumping duties on Chinese PET. In 2023, shipments from Vietnam surged by approximately 90%, propelling the country from the fifth to the second-largest PET supplier to the EU. Market players worry that further trade restrictions would drive up costs and tighten supply even more in an already fragile market, where the high season struggles to begin.