South Korea Launches Anti-Dumping Investigation on Chinese PVC — July 23, 2026
On July 8, 2026, South Korea's Trade Commission (KTC) issued Announcement No. 2026-13, officially initiating an anti-dumping investigation into Chinese suspension polyvinyl chloride (PVC-S) resin, covering both dumping fact-finding and domestic industry injury assessment. The petition was filed by South Korean company Hanwha, alleging that Chinese products were sold below normal value, harming the domestic industry.
Background
PVC-S is a key basic chemical material widely used in pipes, profiles, films, and wire & cable applications. China is the world's largest PVC producer and exporter, and South Korea is a significant export destination for Chinese PVC. As China's PVC capacity has continued to expand, export competition has intensified, with some low-priced cargoes drawing complaints from South Korea's domestic industry.
Investigation Procedures
Per the KTC announcement, the investigation will proceed in two phases: Phase 1 covers dumping fact-finding, verifying whether Chinese exports were sold below normal value; Phase 2 assesses domestic industry injury or threat of injury in South Korea. The investigation is expected to span 6 to 12 months.
China's Ministry of Commerce Response
A spokesperson for China's Ministry of Commerce expressed regret over the investigation decision, stating that the case lacks factual basis and that China-Korea trade has always followed fair trade principles. China will closely monitor the investigation's progress and reserves the right to defend enterprises' legitimate interests within the WTO framework.
Market Impact
The news caused some market sentiment turbulence in the PVC sector. In the short term, South Korean buyers may slow import procurement. Medium to long term, if anti-dumping duties are imposed, it could create pressure on Chinese PVC exports to South Korea. However, given China's diversified export structure — with main flows to Southeast Asia and the Middle East — the overall impact may be relatively contained.
(Sources: Korea Trade Commission, Plasway, Ministry of Commerce — as of July 22, 2026)
