The European Commission has opened an investigation into hot-rolled steel sheet piles imported from China to determine whether they are being dumped in Europe. The investigation was launched following a complaint by EU steelmaker group Eurofer and could bring fresh measures against Chinese steel. The Journal said the complaint was lodged on behalf of three manufacturers making this product in the EU, including ArcelorMittal subsidiaries in Luxembourg and Poland and Vitkovice Steel of the Czech Republic. The complaint says exports from China have increased significantly at prices that are artificially low.

The product subject to this investigation is hot-rolled steel sheet piles defined as sheet piling of iron or steel, whether or not drilled, punched or made from assembled elements, composed of hot rolled corrugated sheets with interlocks that can form an impervious continuous wall. Cold-formed steel sheet piles are excluded.

The product allegedly being dumped is the product under investigation, originating in the country concerned, currently falling within CN code ex 7301 10 00 (TARIC code 7301 10 00 10).

The investigation of dumping and injury will cover the period from 1 April 2017 to 31 March 2018. The examination of trends relevant for the assessment of injury will cover the period from 1 January 2015 to the end of the investigation period.