Investigation of Epoxy Resin Imports: U.S. Trade Actions Against China, India, and Taiwan

Investigation of Epoxy Resin Imports: U.S. Trade Actions Against China, India, and Taiwan

November 22, 2024 Catherine Williams - Chief Editor Business

Scope of Investigation

The subject of this investigation includes fully or partially uncured epoxy resins, also known as epoxide resins. These resins contain epoxy groups, which are three-membered ring structures made of two carbon atoms and one oxygen atom. Epoxy resins come in various forms, from low-viscosity liquids to solids. All types of epoxy resins, regardless of their physical form or chemical structure, are included in this investigation.

Background Information

The final phase of these investigations is scheduled under the Tariff Act of 1930, based on preliminary findings from Commerce. These findings indicate that subsidies, as defined by the Act, are being provided to manufacturers in China, India, and Taiwan. Additionally, epoxy resins from China, India, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand are being sold in the U.S. at unfair prices. The investigation followed petitions filed on April 3, 2024, by the U.S. Epoxy Resin Producers Ad Hoc Coalition, which includes Olin Corporation and Westlake Corporation.

South Korea’s Involvement

Commerce has found that there are no countervailable subsidies for epoxy resin producers in South Korea. However, the investigation will continue efficiently in case of any affirmative determination regarding imports from South Korea.

Participation Guidelines

To take part in this investigation, interested parties must file an entry of appearance with the Secretary to the Commission within 21 days before the hearing. Those who submitted a notice during the preliminary phase do not need to submit again. The Secretary will maintain a public service list of all participating individuals and their representatives.

Filing Submissions

Only electronic filings will be accepted during this investigation. Filings must be made through the Commission’s Electronic Document Information System (EDIS). Physical submissions or paper copies will not be accepted until further notice.

Key Dates

  • The prehearing staff report will be available on January 13, 2025.
  • The hearing date is set for January 28, 2025. Requests to appear must be submitted by January 22, 2025.
  • Prehearing briefs are due by January 21, 2025.
  • Posthearing briefs must be submitted by February 4, 2025.

Written Submissions

Parties involved must submit various documents, including prehearing briefs and written testimonies. Any interested party who has not entered an appearance may submit a written statement by February 4, 2025. The Commission will make available any information not previously commented on by February 18, 2025.

Final Notes

All submissions must follow the Commission’s filing procedures. Each document must be served to all parties, accompanied by a certificate of service. The Secretary will not accept any document without this certificate.

Conclusion

This investigation aims to evaluate the impact of subsidies and pricing practices on the epoxy resin market in the U.S. Participation and compliance with the outlined procedures are vital to the process.