Recently, France, Germany, and Italy plan to jointly push the EU to launch an import safeguard investigation into chemical and plastic products such as PET, epoxy resin, and glass fiber. If ultimately implemented, the EU will set import quotas and impose additional tariffs on above-quota products, directly affecting quotations and market access for industrial panels, fiberglass products, composite materials, and other products exported to Europe.
Unlike anti-dumping, safeguard measures do not target specific countries. They cover all EU trading partners and do not require proof of dumping—only a determination that a surge in imports has harmed domestic industry. The EU has rarely used safeguard measures historically. If implemented this time, the policy will be relatively strong. Late 2026 to early 2027 is expected to be a key window.
Current situation of the three product categories:
· PET: The EU already has anti-dumping duties, but China’s exports are still growing, with a clear price advantage.
· Glass fiber: The EU’s duties on Chinese glass fiber fabrics are relatively high, but Europe’s domestic capacity is insufficient, and import dependence remains strong.
· Epoxy resin: The EU has imposed duties, and China’s export growth has slowed somewhat.
Downstream impact:
Wind power, automotive lightweighting, building materials, pipes and storage tanks, and other composite industries will face pressure from rising costs and unstable supply.
Recommendations for B2B buyers and exporters:
1.Arrange shipments and stockpiling before quotas take effect.
2.Assess production capacity within the EU or in free trade agreement countries and use rules of origin.
3.Prepare compliant certificates of origin and avoid simple transshipment.
4.Include tariff adjustment clauses in quotations and clarify cost sharing with customers.
5.Monitor EU industrial policy linkages and make medium- to long-term plans.
Conclusion:
The EU’s import controls on chemical and plastic materials may become a medium- to long-term trend. Companies are advised to track policy as soon as possible and prepare simultaneously in three areas: quota windows, capacity deployment, and compliance systems.
Specific policies are subject to the European Commission’s official announcements.