UK targets Chinese biodiesel imports over unfairly low prices

The UK Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) has proposed anti-dumping duties on Chinese biodiesel imports, saying they are sold at “unfairly low prices” and are “causing material injury to UK producers.”

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The TRA has recommended anti-dumping duties of 15.68% on biodiesel imports from the Zhuoyue Group and its cooperating exporters, and 54.64% on all other Chinese exporters. The measures aim to protect UK producers from unfair competition while ensuring fair trade.

The investigation, launched on 5 June following a complaint by the Renewable Transport Fuels Association (RTFA), covers biodiesel products such as fatty-acid methyl ester (FAME) and hydrotreated vegetable oils (HVO), whether sold pure or in blends.

The TRA warned that without protective action, UK biofuel producers such as Argent, Olleco and Greenergy could be forced out of the market.

In July, Greenergy launched a consultation to cease production at its biodiesel plant in Immingham on the UK’s east coast, citing sustained “market pressures” despite cost-cutting measures.

To prevent the exit of UK producers, the TRA has proposed applying ad-valorem duties (charged as a percentage of value) for a period of five years.

By Tuhin Roy

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